ACT Labor calls for a change in the way Australia responds to violence perpetrated against retail and fast food workers because “no one deserves a serve” recognising that when this occurs the perpetrator is no longer a customer but is an offender and the need for a coordinated approach that recognises the role of Government, the responsibility of employers to provide safe workplaces and the voice of workers through their union.
SDA research shows that more than 85% of retail workers have been subjected to verbal abuse from a customer in the last 12 months, 76% on a regular basis. 12.5% of workers have faced physical violence and 9% have been spat on.
These essential workers assured Australia of its supply of goods through the Covid-19 pandemic now are witnessing, with the economic challenges currently faced by so many, a continued escalation of violence and other offences.
Folllowing the tragic incident at Westfield Bondi Junction the SDA, PSA and Police Association called for the introduction of “Jack’s Law” to empower police in designated areas to undertake wanding to prevent knife crimes. The NSW Labor Government introduced these laws.