Workplace Protection (Personal Violence) Bill

Tuesday 25 November 2025

S.E. ANDREWS (Gibson) (12:19): I rise today to speak in support of the Workplace Protection (Personal Violence) Bill 2025. This bill is about nurses, retail staff, hospitality workers, and every South Australian who serves our public every day and who deserves to do their job without fear of violence or harassment. Too many workers have had their safety compromised simply for showing up for work, and we believe that no-one should have to risk their wellbeing to earn a living.

This government's workplace protection order scheme, the most extensive of its kind in the nation, will give businesses, employers, industry groups and unions the ability to apply to the Magistrates Court or Youth Court to bar individuals from entering or being within a particular distance of a workplace if there are concerns they will continue to engage in violent or intimidating behaviour in that workplace. This bill delivers real protection, giving courts the power to bar individuals for up to 12 months for serious penalties when breaching the bill, including up to five years in prison.

The bill builds on our record: tougher penalties for assaults on retail staff, Operation Measure tackling shop theft, nation-leading knife crime reforms, and stronger police powers in public spaces. We stand with workers: we do not just talk about safety, we deliver on it. This bill is fair, practical and inclusive. It protects workers in any public-facing workplace, whether in person or online.

Orders can be sought, as well, by health and safety reps and property owners. This can prevent dangerous individuals from entering workplaces, contacting staff, or even requiring the surrender of firearms or associated licences when safety demands it. Interim orders give immediate protection, and courts retain the discretion to vary or evoke orders where appropriate. We have consulted widely with unions, employers and industry groups to ensure it all works in practice.

This bill is about more than law and order: it is about standing up for working people, protecting them from harm, and sending a clear message that violence against workers will not be tolerated in South Australia. When workers are safe communities are stronger, families are safer, and our economy thrives. I commend the bill to the house.