In a concerning revelation, a vast majority—nine out of ten—of retail employers in Victoria are deeply worried about the safety of their employees. This comes in light of a recent survey conducted by the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The survey highlights a disturbing trend: half of the businesses surveyed experience crime weekly, with incidents such as theft, customer abuse, and vandalism on the rise. These criminal activities are not just a threat to safety but also a financial burden. Approximately 38 percent of businesses report incurring losses of up to $10,000 annually due to security measures and stolen merchandise.

Moreover, the repercussions extend beyond financial costs. The survey, which gathered insights from around 1,400 businesses, indicates a troubling increase in staff taking mental health leave, driven by stress and anxiety arising from these incidents.

Sally Curtain, the CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, acknowledges the widespread nature of retail crime across the state. Her comments underscore the pressing need for solutions to safeguard both the physical and mental well-being of retail workers.

Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Sally Curtain said retail crime was a widespread issue across the state.

“Right across every sector and every region, from regional Victoria, metropolitan Melbourne and of course the CBD,” Curtain said.

Master Grocers Association director Lincoln Wymer said retail staff faced abuse on a daily basis.

“Our team members are being abused on a daily basis and it’s not just my 20 odd stores,” Wymer said.

“Everyday we hear a story of somebody being assaulted.”

In a bid to combat retail crime Victoria Police has reportedly signed a landmark deal which will see detectives given instant access to a retailer’s CCTV footage.

Big businesses such as Woolworths, Coles and Bunnings already upload CCTV and other crime information to the platform Auror.

Under the new deal, Victoria Police will have direct access to that on request, which will save them hours of work.