Tougher reforms raise prison time, fines for offenders
Western Australia's Parliament has passed new laws raising the maximum penalties for individuals assaulting retail workers.
The laws create a new provision in the state's Criminal Code to hike maximum penalties for offenders to up to seven years in prison, or three years and a fine of $36,000.
According to the state government, this is much higher than the previous penalties of 18 months imprisonment and a fine of $18,000.
The government said the stronger penalties send a message that assaulting retail workers is "unacceptable."
"These reforms will ensure that not only does our justice system protect retail workers, but also community standards are met with appropriate penalties for these types of crimes," said Attorney General John Quigley in a statement.
The new laws come amid growing assault cases against retail workers since the pandemic began. In fact, a 2023 survey from the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association revealed that 87% of retail workers had experienced abuse from customers in the past year.
To curb cases of assault against retail workers, various governments and private employers have been implementing measures to protect their staff.
Woolworths last year said they have invested in CCTV upgrades, two-way radio headsets, as well as virtual reality violence and aggression training to protect their staff from abuse.
A new safety council is also underway in Australia to address the rising incidents of customer abuse and violence.
