Australia is currently experiencing its busiest shopping period of the year, with retail workers hustling to meet the demands of eager shoppers. However, a more troubling trend is unfolding in the nation’s largest retail stores. Alongside the festive rush, there is a notable increase in theft, violence, and customer aggression.
In response, major brands such as Kmart, Bunnings, Coles, and Woolworths are implementing measures to ensure worker safety and curb theft. A new store feature, however, is causing significant frustration among shoppers. Kmart has become the latest major retailer to install security gates at its entrances and exits—a move that has sparked backlash similar to that experienced by Coles and Woolworths in recent years.
Security Measures Under Scrutiny
The installation of security gates is intended to deter theft, but according to Scott Taylor, a security, risk, and communications expert, they are not a comprehensive solution to stopping violence or theft. Taylor expressed concerns that these measures could alienate customers.
“[It’s] causing some frustration because sometimes you can get issues with them, and then you’ve got the person who might be aggressive and violent, now trapped behind the gate there with you,” Scott Taylor told Yahoo News.
Taylor noted that while reducing the size of entry and exit points can improve visibility for businesses, not all major retailers, and not even all Kmart locations, will implement the same security measures. He emphasized the need for retailers to tailor their security strategies based on demographic factors and crime reporting.
“You’ve got to protect all your assets and it’s not just your property and your reputation, you need to protect your people,” he added.
Kmart’s Response to Security Concerns
A Kmart spokesperson acknowledged that “shrinkage” is a significant challenge for the business, and the installation of security gates is one of several initiatives aimed at enhancing the shopping experience’s safety and enjoyment. The spokesperson highlighted that these measures are part of a broader strategy, which includes upgraded equipment.
The spokesperson did not provide details on whether the initiative would be expanded or how many stores currently have the security gates installed.
Western Australia’s Legislative Measures
Meanwhile, in Western Australia, the government is proposing landmark legislation to empower retailers against intimidation and violent assaults. The proposed Retail Barring Orders (RBO) Bill 2025 would allow employers and shopping center management to ban offenders from stores for up to two years, with breaches potentially resulting in up to five years of imprisonment.
The Bill aims to give retailers more authority to intervene early and prevent high-risk individuals from re-entering premises before incidents can escalate. It is set to go before parliament for approval.
By the Numbers: Retail Crime Statistics
- 70% of retailers reported an increase in customer theft over the last financial year.
- 87% of retail workers report experiencing verbal abuse.
- Approximately 800,000 retail crime incidents were reported across Australia in the past year.
- The top 10% of offenders are responsible for around 60% of total harm.
- Over 50% of retail workers are women, and more than a third are aged 15–24 years.
As Kmart and other retailers navigate the complexities of ensuring safety while maintaining customer satisfaction, the debate over security measures continues. The introduction of security gates represents a broader trend in retail security, but it also highlights the challenges of balancing safety with customer experience.
Yahoo News has reached out to Kmart for additional comments on the security measures.
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