NCJ Number
92067
Date Published
1983
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Reasonable efforts have been undertaken throughout Australia to use all avenues of the media to educate the public about the hidden costs of shoplifting, with retail industry associations, retailers themselves, and schools assuming the leadership.
Abstract
Most of the publicity to counter shoplifting rests with trade associations, such as the Retail Traders' Associations (RTA). For example, the RTA of Queensland has for many years sponsored a radio antishoplifting campaign during the Christmas school holidays, and antishoplifting posters have been placed in the schools. The RTA of New South Wales has also produced message posters directed at juveniles. Much of the public education has been designed to inform the public of the 'hidden costs' of shoplifting. Several large retailers, particularly those with their own inhouse printing services, produce effective posters for use within stores. In 1981, the Education Department of Victoria approached the RTA of Victoria for financial support and cooperation in the loan of retail security specialists to produce a video that portrays the shoplifting problem. This project was completed, and the materials are currently being used in schools. Much has also been accomplished in the training of retail management and staff in security matters. At least two State RTA's have retained professional security consultants.