Woolworths Reports Surge in Violence Against Staff, Urges NSW to Fast-Track Protection Orders
1,400 violent incidents were reported in NSW in 2025 — a 5% increase from the previous year, with 88 involving knives.
Woolworths has reported a significant rise in violent attacks against its employees and is calling on the New South Wales government to urgently expedite workplace protection orders.
The Scale of the Crisis
The supermarket giant has released alarming footage of recent incidents, including a worker having a glass jar smashed over his head and a staff member being dragged by the hair. Sarah Faorlin, Woolworths Head of Acts of Violence and Aggression, called the rise "horrific" and stressed the need for immediate action.
What Are Workplace Protection Orders?
The proposed reform, known as Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs), would allow retailers to seek legally enforceable bans against individuals who repeatedly abuse, threaten, or assault staff. Key points:
- Similar schemes already exist in the ACT and South Australia, with Western Australia moving to adopt them
- The ACT has recorded a 92% reduction in reoffending since implementing WPOs
- The bans would be legally enforceable, providing retailers with a practical tool to protect workers
Voices from the Frontline
"These incidents are completely unacceptable and are a daily experience for our members." — Bernie Smith, secretary of the NSW branch of the Distributive and Allied Employees' Association
Government Response
NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis confirmed the government is actively working on the issue and hopes to introduce legislation this year.
Woolworths continues to push for faster action, urging the government to treat workplace violence as a priority.