State government beefs up penalties against retail abuse, theft
Individuals seeking to harm retail workers in Western Australia can now face up to a decade in jail under a new law taking effect this month.
The penalty is introduced under a new "assault retail workers" offence in Western Australia to curb incidents of retail abuse, according to the state government.
People who attack retail staff could receive a prison sentence of up to seven years, or three years and a fine of $36,000.
Armed individuals, or those accompanied by others, may receive longer jail sentences of up to a decade.
"These tougher penalties send a strong message that violent behaviour towards staff simply doing their job won't be tolerated," said Police Minister Paul Papalia in a statement.
The penalties are also much higher than the previous 18-month prison sentence and a fine of $18,000, according to the WA government.
The legislation was first announced in February following findings that 92% of retailers across Australia have experienced or have had a team member experience verbal or physical assault while at work.
"The Cook Government doesn't tolerate cowardly acts of violence against retail workers," said Attorney-General John Quigley in a statement. "The retail sector plays a crucial part in WA's economy and staff shouldn't be threatened or subjected to acts of violence in their workplace."
Meanwhile, individuals with repeat offences of low-level stealing can now be imprisoned in Western Australia.
According to the WA government, it removed the "fine only" penalty limit for those convicted of stealing, or attempted stealing, when they have two or more prior similar convictions in the past year.
Maximum penalty for serial thieves may reach two years of imprisonment and $24,000 when dealt with summarily, it added.
"WA Police do an incredible job tracking down shoplifters and holding them to account but some serial offenders don't get the message," Papalia said. "Under these new laws, if shoplifters continue to disregard the law they will go to prison."
