Business NSW has backed proposed new laws introducing increased penalties for those who attack retail owners and their staff.

Under the changes, three new offences will be introduced into the Crimes Act making it an offence to attack retail workers in the course of their duty.

Maximum penalties will be 11 years’ imprisonment.

Business NSW Executive Director David Harding said the new laws are important.

“Any laws that further protect businesses and the people that work in them are welcome,” he said. 

“Business owners and their staff have done it tough through the pandemic, with many staff suffering from rising costs and fatigue. 

“Many business owners work on the frontline of their stores. They are the hairdresser meeting clients at the door, the owner of the pizza restaurant welcoming customers.

“Let’s hope this law change makes offenders think twice before attacking business owners and their staff.”