Australian retailers are facing a surge in retail crime, with incidents involving weapons rising by 66 per cent in the past year, according to the latest data from retail crime reporting software Auror.

The report highlights a sharp increase in violent and threatening behaviour, prompting urgent calls from advocates for government intervention.

Spike in violence and intimidation

The report found a 30 per cent increase in violent or serious incidents and a 39 per cent rise in threatening events across the country in 2024. Victoria recorded the most significant spike, with violent incidents up by 38 per cent and threatening events jumping by 52 per cent.

the report suggests that retail crime is becoming more organised and aggressive, with frontline workers, customers, and local communities bearing the brunt of the impact. Auror Senior Director of Trust & Safety, Nick McDonnell, said one in four retail crime events involved some form of violence, intimidation, or abuse.

“Police do an incredible job, but retail crime is happening at such a high volume that it’s impossible to address it all,” McDonnell said. “The key is targeting repeat offenders, who are responsible for the majority of serious crimes.”

Data shows that 10 per cent of offenders were responsible for over 60 per cent of the total harm and loss last year.

Calls for government action

Industry groups, including the National Retail Association (NRA) and the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), are urging policymakers to prioritise retail crime. NRA Interim CEO Lindsay Carroll said governments need to equip retailers and police with the right tools, including funding, policy changes, and leadership.

“Criminals have become bolder, and our system needs to keep up,” Carroll said. “We need to embrace technology-based solutions that can tackle retail crime at scale.”

ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer Fleur Brown echoed the call, pushing for tougher penalties for offenders and increased funding for security measures.

“Retail crime has a profound and lasting impact on frontline retail staff and customers. Everyone has a right to feel safe at work or while shopping,” Brown said.

Despite ongoing advocacy, crime rates continue to climb, with Victoria hit the hardest. Retailers and industry leaders say stronger penalties, technology-driven crime prevention, and better government support are essential to curb the growing threat.

Just last month, Victorian police were on the hunt for a gang of youths believed to be responsible for a spate of violent robberies across retail stores in the CBD, while a Melbourne teenager has been charged with murder following a machete attack outside Marriot shopping centre in March.

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