The proposal for the implementation of Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs) will allow courts to restrict people aged 14 and over from re-entering a workplace, contacting workers or possessing weapons if they have engaged in stalking, intimidation, or personal violence at work and are likely to reoffend.
Breaching an order may result in up to two years' imprisonment, a $AUD5,500 fine, or both.
Businesses, unions and health and safety representatives can apply for orders on employees' behalf with appropriate authorisation. The move follows consultations with retailers, police, unions and legal stakeholders that began in March.
The Australian Retail Council (ARC) welcomed the legislation; however, CEO Chris Rodwell called for faster implementation.
"This is a significant step forward in protecting retail workers who face unacceptable violence, threats and abuse simply for doing their jobs," he said.
"Retail workers are facing violence and abuse today, and every day counts. We urge the government to act with urgency and bring the laws into operation as soon as possible."
The legislation is expected to take effect within 12 months of its passage.
South Australia and the ACT have already introduced WPOs. Victoria's legislation starts in July 2027, and Tasmania began public consultation in June.
The proposal builds on NSW’s retail crime response, including Operation Percentile, which began last October and is linked to more than 2,380 offences and $AUD600,000 in stolen goods.
The ARC urged NSW to implement urgent interim orders after criticising Victoria’s legislation for failing to allow the immediate barring of alleged offenders from retail workplaces.
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