Across Victoria and other parts of Australia, independent retailers are confronting a challenging retail environment. Reports indicate a rise in incidents ranging from theft and break-ins to increasingly bold and, at times, violent encounters. These developments are a reminder that the safety of staff, customers, and communities remains a top priority for all retailers.

Understanding the Landscape

Retail crime is no longer limited to opportunistic theft. Many incidents now involve repeat offenders and, in some cases, organised networks targeting stores. While the majority of retailers remain resilient, these challenges underline the importance of proactive safety strategies and ongoing vigilance.

Some retailers also face crimes linked to illicit tobacco operations, which further enforces the need for safety and risk management. Understanding the broader context of retail crime is essential in designing effective prevention measures.

Practical Steps for Retailers

While there is no single solution, retailers can take steps to improve safety and mitigate risks:

• Review store security systems, including lighting, alarms, and CCTV coverage.
• Develop and regularly update staff safety protocols and incident response plans . Download our Aggressive Customers/Armed Robbery/Hold Ups Policy   
• Engage with local police and community safety initiatives to share information and receive guidance.
• Consider collaborative approaches with neighbouring businesses to create safer precincts.
• Stay informed about legal and ethical considerations around emerging technologies, such as facial recognition.

Media Spotlight and Advocacy

The media has also begun to shine a light on the issue, highlighting the unprovoked and often violent attacks on retail workers. By bringing these stories to the public, journalists are helping to pressure the government to take urgent action.

Behind the scenes, MGA is working with other industry groups and actively engaging with media outlets to keep the issue at the forefront. At the same time, ongoing efforts are underway to lobby the government and assemble a set of tangible actions designed to support retailers, enhance safety, and rebuild community confidence.

What We Are Calling For

MGA, together with other industry leaders, is urging the Victorian and federal Government to take tangible, immediate steps to protect retailers, their employees, and the communities they serve. These include:

• Stronger partnerships for intelligence sharing: Establish a formal retail crime partnership between retailer groups, Victoria Police, local government, and the Department of Justice to ensure real-time information flows directly to decision-makers and agencies responsible for responding.
• Tougher community-based sentences: Expand the use of Intensive Community Correction Orders (ICCOs) with strict conditions—such as curfews, electronic monitoring, mental health and substance treatment, community service, and exclusion from retail environments—where courts decide against prison. This approach is proven more effective than short prison terms, while keeping imprisonment available for serious offenders.
• Mandatory compensation for victims: Require courts to order restitution for retail crime victims, with a presumption in favour of compensation. Where offenders cannot pay, a dedicated Retail Victim Compensation Fund should cover losses.
• Stronger bail and sentencing laws: Build on recent bail law reforms by introducing a presumption against bail for aggravated retail crimes (e.g., weapon use or threats). Sentencing should explicitly reflect the seriousness of aggravated retail offences with tougher outcomes, including stricter ICCOs.

Empowering Retail Communities

Independent supermarkets, liquor stores, and convenience outlets are vital to local communities. They provide jobs, support families, and act as trusted meeting places. Allowing crime to spiral unchecked not only hurts business owners—it threatens community wellbeing and undermines confidence in public safety.

“Our members are resilient and committed to serving their communities, but no one should have to work in fear,” says Martin Stirling, CEO of MGA Independent Businesses Australia.

“It’s time for practical, coordinated action that protects retailers, their staff, and the neighbourhoods they serve,” said Martin Stirling, CEO of MGA Independent Businesses Australia.

It is important to acknowledge the resilience and dedication of retail teams. Awareness, preparedness, and a strong support network can help retailers continue operating safely and confidently. The goal is not to alarm but to empower retailers with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves, their staff, and the communities they serve.

Looking Ahead

As the retail environment evolves, so too must approaches to safety and security. By staying informed, adopting best practices, and fostering collaboration among retailers, law enforcement, media, and local communities, it is possible to mitigate risks and ensure that shops remain welcoming and safe spaces for everyone.