In Victoria, the retail sector is grappling with a pervasive sense of unease, as a startling 90% of employers express deep concerns over the safety of their staff. This anxiety is underscored by a recent survey conducted by the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which highlights a troubling trend of rising criminal incidents.

The survey paints a grim picture, revealing that half of the businesses in the region face some form of crime on a weekly basis. These incidents, which range from theft and vandalism to customer abuse, are not just mere inconveniences but significant financial burdens. An alarming 38% of businesses report annual losses of up to $10,000, stemming from both security measures and the replacement of stolen goods.

Moreover, the impact of these crimes extends beyond financial loss, taking a toll on the mental well-being of employees. The survey, which included responses from approximately 1,400 businesses, indicates a worrying trend in mental health leave, with more staff needing time off to cope with stress and anxiety.

Sally Curtain, the chief executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the widespread nature of this issue. “This is a problem that affects every sector and region across the state,” she noted, pointing to areas from regional Victoria to metropolitan Melbourne, including the central business district, as hotspots for retail crime.

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.