LEGISLATION to protect retail workers and customers by banning violent and aggressive individuals is set to take effect before Christmas after passing state Parliament last week.

A new law will allow courts to ban abusive and violent individuals from stores for up to two years to safeguard retail workers and customers.

Introducing retail barring orders was a Cook Labor government election commitment to build on earlier reforms imposing tougher penalties for assaults on retail staff.

As reported in Laws to protect retail workers and businesses from crime a new offence for assaulting retail workers was introduced, resulting in individuals who attack staff in the course of their duties facing up to seven years in prison, or three years and a fine of $36,000.

The Retail Barring Orders Bill 2025 passed Parliament last week, and under the legislation, employers, shopping centre owners and unions can apply to the courts to ban violent individuals from retail premises.

A court order will make a ban enforceable by WA Police.

A retail barring order against an adult can be imposed for up to two years and up to one year for children.

Serious or persistent breaches of an order can result in penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment.
The laws include safeguards that ensure those subject to barring orders can purchase groceries and access essential services.

Attorney General Dr Tony Buti said the government was committed to protecting retail staff and customers so they can safely go about their business without encountering threats, violence and anti-social behaviour.

“That’s why we introduced a new offence for assaults on retail workers with tough penalties and have now passed legislation to keep thugs away from stores.

“About 25 per cent of retail staff nationally have faced physical violence at work and a majority have been abused repeatedly by the same customer.

“We now have a legally enforceable way to keep these people away from retail premises with the strong deterrent of potential imprisonment if they breach a ban.

“These reforms are vital to protect an industry of mostly small businesses that employs up to 150,000 people in Western Australia and ensure retailers can do their jobs safely.

“We are working to have these laws in effect before Christmas, when the busy shopping period can bring increased aggression and abuse towards retail workers, so staff and shoppers have stronger protections when they are needed most.”

Police Minister Reece Whitby said retail workers should be able to go to work without fear of being abused, threatened or assaulted and customers should feel safe when they shop.

“Retail barring orders give WA Police another tool to keep violent aggressive offenders away from the stores where they have caused harm.

“This builds on our work to back retail workers and keep our communities safe.”