Supermarket owners across Victoria are voicing growing frustration over what they see as inadequate government action in tackling youth crime, as violent raids and thefts continue to surge. Many are demanding mandatory prison sentences for young offenders involved in armed robberies and violent incidents that are leaving staff traumatised and businesses under pressure.
CCTV footage recently captured a machete-wielding gang storming a Melbourne IGA in broad daylight, threatening staff and stealing the cash register before escaping. In another instance, workers were physically assaulted during raids, leaving long-lasting psychological effects. Store operators say these incidents highlight the alarming rise in violent attacks, which have become increasingly brazen and unpredictable.
Official figures underline the scale of the problem. Victoria Police reported a 38 per cent increase in retail theft across the state over the last financial year, recording more than 41,000 offences. Small and independent supermarkets have become a frequent target, with operators claiming the justice system is doing little to deter offenders who are often released shortly after arrest.
Retail leaders argue that the current system fails both workers and business owners. They say that without harsher sentencing, including mandatory jail terms for serious offences such as knife crime and assaults on staff, the cycle of offending will only continue. Many owners believe that young offenders committing violent acts should face the same consequences as adults.
To protect themselves, some retailers have formed digital alert groups, using apps to share real-time warnings about robberies in progress. While these measures offer some reassurance, many owners admit that frustration is growing as incidents continue to escalate. There is widespread concern that offenders see little risk in targeting shops, knowing that consequences are minimal and short-lived.
The state government has introduced new measures, including a ban on machete sales and the installation of disposal bins, in an attempt to reduce the use of bladed weapons. Retailers, however, remain unconvinced, arguing that such steps are largely symbolic and unlikely to deter criminals who rely on these weapons during raids.
Security has also become a pressing issue. While the presence of guards can provide a deterrent, operators point out that hiring staff around the clock is not financially sustainable. Attacks are no longer confined to late-night trading hours, with incidents occurring during the day and even in school hours. For many, this unpredictability makes it impossible to know when security measures would be effective.
As the pressure mounts, retailers are urging stronger legislative reforms, pointing to international examples where tougher sentencing and stricter enforcement have led to a decline in youth crime. Countries such as New Zealand and Singapore are cited as models that Victoria could follow, using decisive action to protect workers and send a stronger message of accountability.
Industry representatives say shop staff, many of whom are casual workers and often women, are placed in unsafe situations that no workplace should tolerate. Reports of employees struggling to return to work due to trauma have further underlined the human cost behind the statistics. The fear of violence at the checkout counter has become a reality for many frontline retail workers.
The opposition has also weighed in, blaming years of weak policy for allowing crime rates to rise and pledging stronger enforcement measures if elected. Their proposed “Break Bail, Face Jail” policy is aimed at ensuring repeat offenders face immediate and tougher consequences.
Retail theft and violent raids are no longer seen as isolated or petty crimes but as part of an escalating crisis that carries both financial and human costs. Businesses are losing revenue, insurance costs are increasing, and shoppers ultimately bear the financial burden through higher prices. More importantly, workers face the constant risk of being threatened or attacked while performing their jobs.
For supermarket owners, the message is clear: the current approach is failing, and only stronger laws, consistent enforcement, and real consequences for offenders will restore safety and confidence in Victoria’s retail sector.
For the latest retailer news and information, check out the IndiHub website or to speak to us about how we can help your business contact us.
