The SDA has welcomed the release of draft Workplace Protection Order legislation by the Tasmanian Government as an important step in the ongoing campaign to make retail, fast food and pharmacy workplaces safer for workers. Under the proposed laws, repeat violent offenders could be banned from entering workplaces for up to 12 months where there is a serious risk of further violence, intimidation or property damage. The scheme would apply broadly across workplaces and cover conduct arising from in-person, electronic and online interactions.
SDA Tasmania Secretary Joel Tynan said the proposal reflected years of advocacy by the SDA Tasmania branch, retail workers, delegates to address the growing levels of abuse, aggression and violence experienced by frontline retail and fast food workers.
“Our members should be able to come to work without fear of intimidation, threats or violence. Nobody should have to accept abuse as part of their job,” Mr Tynan said.
“Retail workers have been on the frontline of increasing incidents involving aggression, shop theft and anti-social behaviour. These proposed Workplace Protection Orders are an important step towards providing workers with additional protection and sending a clear message that violence will not be tolerated.”
“While there is more work to do, this reform demonstrates that governments can take practical action when workers raise legitimate concerns about safety.”
The SDA will carefully review the draft legislation during the consultation process and continue advocating for stronger protections to ensure every worker can return home safely after their shift.