The NSW Government has launched a new Retail Crime Strategy to tackle retail theft and violence, supported by a statewide rollout of NSW Police’s Operation Percentile.
The initiative aims to reduce assaults, intimidation and theft in retail settings through high-visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and stronger collaboration between police and industry.
Since its launch in Sydney in August 2024, Operation Percentile has led to 1,080 arrests for more than 1,395 offences and the recovery of $960,500 in stolen goods. The model has been recognised by the National Retail Association (NRA) for excellence in law enforcement.
Police prosecutors will also seek Place Restriction Orders to prevent repeat offenders from re-entering retail premises after conviction.
Yasmin Catley, Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, said the strategy makes clear that violence against workers will not be tolerated.
“No one should be attacked for simply doing their job which is why the NSW Police, backed by the Minns Government, is taking decisive action by giving police everything they need to keep the community safe.
“Violence and aggression towards workers is intolerable and the presence of police tells people in no uncertain terms that this behaviour will not be tolerated and there are real consequences for those who cross the line.”
Mal Lanyon, NSW Police Commissioner, said a small number of repeat offenders are responsible for much of the harm.
“It’s deeply concerning that a small proportion of offenders are responsible for a significant share of retail crime, with devastating consequences for those affected.
“Police will continue to collaborate closely with retailers and industry bodies to refine our disruption strategies and respond swiftly to emerging threats.”
According to Auror data, the top 10 per cent of offenders are responsible for more than 60 per cent of retail crime, and repeat offenders are four times more likely to be violent. One in ten retail crime incidents involve weapons, most commonly knives and blades.
Nick McDonnell, Senior Director of Trust and Safety at Auror, said the use of technology will help police and retailers address organised crime more effectively.
“The statewide rollout of NSW Police’s successful Operation Percentile and new retail crime strategy is a welcome announcement not only for retailers, but for the wider community.
“It’s great to see NSW Police leaning into the use of technology like Auror’s retail crime intelligence software to work closely with retailers to disrupt organised retail crime networks and solve serious crime in stores.”
The strategy was developed with the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA), the Australian Retailers Association, National Retail Association and the Shopping Centre Council.
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