Bunnings responds to commitment of stronger protections for retail workers in Victoria

Bunnings responds to commitment of stronger protections for retail workers in Victoria

Response from Bunnings following the announcement by the Liberals and Nationals in Victoria of stronger and faster protections from violence, threats and abuse at work, including retail settings.

Statement from Bunnings Managing Director Mike Schneider:

We welcome this commitment as a positive step forward in strengthening protections for retail workers and making them available sooner, including through interim Workplace Protection Orders.

Retail crime is a very real and serious issue facing our industry, and decisive action is needed to address the growing levels of violence, abuse and threatening behaviour experienced by frontline workers. We need every available tool to deter repeat offenders and help keep team members and customers safe.

No one should experience violence or abuse while doing their job. These orders will provide an important additional safeguard against serious repeat offenders and help create safer workplaces for frontline team members.

We’ve long advocated for stronger protections for retail workers and will continue working constructively with all sides of politics, industry and unions to ensure these measures are implemented as quickly and effectively as possible.