The strategy, known as Operation Pulse, has been widely publicised and is said to have helped decrease escalating theft and violence across the state’s prominent shopping locations.
Victoria’s newly installed premier, Ben Carroll, has confirmed plans to recruit an additional 150 more Protective Services Officers. Officers will patrol high-traffic areas such as local shopping strips and shopping centres to address crime and anti-social behaviour, with the rollout expanding to more locations. Operation Pulse was recently extended to the end of 2027.
Since Operation Pulse was launched in December, more than 1,700 people have been arrested. Data shows Victoria is significantly overrepresented in the country’s crime statistics, with around 100 violent retail crime events in the state every day.
Operation Pulse centres on nine major shopping centres and retail locations. The announcement has been met with praise from retail industry representatives.
Shopping Centre Council of Australia CEO Angus Nardi said that the organisation’s members have experienced a significant decline in violent incidents since Operation Pulse began.
“The feedback we have received from retailers, centre management teams and the broader community on Operation Pulse has been overwhelmingly positive, including that 84 per cent of customers feel safer while shopping,” he said.
“Operation Pulse is a clear example of what can be achieved through strong industry and Government partnerships.”
Australian Retail Council CEO Chris Rodwell said the renewed emphasis on retail crime was a step in the right direction, but a permanent statewide response was required.
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