Exclusive CCTV captures the violence facing Coles workers
Exclusive video obtained by 7.30 highlights shocking scenes of aggressive behaviour towards retail workers, including a customer armed with a hammer and a security guard being thrown into a check-out machine.
Coles, the supermarket giant, has reported an 85% increase in incidents of abuse towards retail staff in Victoria over the past two years. Exclusive CCTV footage has captured instances of customers wielding hammers and security guards being thrown into checkout machines. Premier Ben Carroll announced that Workplace Protection Orders will be implemented by July 2027, but calls for earlier implementation are growing.
Retail workers in Victoria face increasing safety concerns, with one worker reporting daily text alerts for incidents. Coles has implemented additional security measures, including body-worn cameras and security patrols. However, the issue of repeat offenders remains challenging, as they often return and may avoid legal consequences.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll promised Workplace Protection Orders would be in place by July 2027, but opposition calls for earlier implementation.
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