The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) recently reported that 70 per cent of retail business owners have reported an increase in customer theft across the past financial year.
Around half reported they’ve experienced physical abuse monthly or more often, while 87 per cent of retail workers say they’ve experienced verbal abuse.
Recently, in Melbourne, the 2025 Retail Crime Symposium was attended by the Australian Retailers Association, the National Retail Association, the Shop Distributive Alliance, and representatives from the Victorian Government.
The event was focused on a strategy to reduce crime targeting retail businesses, including a crackdown on repeat offenders.
“Research shows that stricter laws positively impact retailers and communities, helping create safer working and shopping environments,” ARA CEO Chris Rodwell explained.
“However, police also need more resources to act effectively, and retailers must improve reporting of these incidents to authorities.
“We’ve already seen a number of strong state-based responses to the retail crime crisis, including Jack’s Law in Queensland and the Workplace Protection Orders in the Australian Capital Territory. Now it’s time for the states to work in lockstep.”
Around 800,000 retail crime incidents were reported across the country over the past year, according to research by the ARA. The study also found that 10 per cent of offenders are responsible for around 60 per cent of incidents.
More reading
Aussie crooks continue love affair with jewellery
Six people charged over violent Queensland jewellery store robbery
Proposal to double penalties for crimes against retailers
Pink diamond conman turns fugitive to avoid prison
Seven people indicted for $150 million jewellery heist
Retailers support plan to boost Australian economy