From Store Shelves to National Impact: The $9B Theft Problem Facing Australia

Retail Theft Now a $9 Billion Crisis — And a National Productivity Issue

Retailers across Australia are facing an escalating wave of crime, costing the industry an estimated $9 billion annually in stolen goods, damages, and security expenses.

Since the pandemic, theft has surged — from organised crime groups and ram raids to violent incidents targeting staff. Major chains are investing in security, but small businesses are struggling to keep up.

“Retail crime is a growing national challenge, with rising incidents of theft, aggression, and organised crime affecting the safety and viability of retail workplaces,” the Australian Retailers Association and National Retail Association said in a joint statement.

Key Stats:

• 800,000 retail crime incidents reported in the last year

• 2.3% of stock lost to theft (“shrinkage”)

• 66% rise in crimes involving weapons

• Top 10% of offenders account for 60% of losses

Now, retail leaders are urging the federal government to treat theft as a national productivity concern, proposing a “harmonisation taskforce” to align retail laws across states and reduce crime by 50% by 2030.

With over 1.3 million Australians working in retail, tackling theft isn’t just about safety — it’s critical to economic performance.

Looking for smarter security solutions? Talk to us about AI-powered theft detection for your store.