The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) union is urging shoppers to remain calm and respectful towards retail and fast-food workers during the busy Easter and Anzac Day long weekends.
The call comes amid concerns that reduced trading hours and high customer volumes may lead to increased incidents of abuse against workers.
Gerard Dwyer, National Secretary of the SDA, said with the Anzac Day long weekend directly following Easter this year, many people are taking extended periods of annual leave.
“Many retail outlets will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday, so shops will be busy.
“We understand that reduced trading hours, longer than usual wait times, the stress of hosting family get-togethers, and the high cost of living and groceries can make for a hostile shopping environment. But it’s never okay for abuse in our shops or drive thrus – retail and fast food workers deserve to be safe.”
According to a 2023 survey of 4,600 retail workers, 87 per cent reported verbal abuse, 12.5 per cent experienced physical abuse, and 9 per cent had been spat on in the past year.
“We wish we didn’t have to remind the public to use basic decency when engaging with staff every time a holiday period approaches, but unfortunately the numbers tell us that we do.
“Retail workers are essential staff who – instead of relaxing over the long weekend – are working. We urge all shoppers to remember this and treat retail and fast food staff as they would like to be treated; with respect,” said Dwyer.
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