Security guard fired after he defended himself against customer attack
A Launceston Kmart security guard was fired after using self-defence against a customer attack.
A Kmart security guard in Launceston was attacked by a customer who refused store policy. When he used self-defence to push the man out, the company fired him.
The guard said the customer kept pushing and hitting him. The guard used what he believed was fair force to remove him.
The termination letter said security staff should step back and seek help instead. Tasmania Police are investigating the assault but have not charged anyone.
The incident reflects a wave of workplace violence across Tasmania. It has prompted new government penalties for aggressive behaviour toward workers.
- 328 in 2024, up from 259 in 2021
- Assault claims
- Launceston Kmart, Tasmania
- Location
- November 1, 2026
- Consultation ends
Why it mattersIt raises questions about whether workers can defend themselves at work and whether employers will protect them.
AustraliaTasmania is introducing new laws to crack down on workplace violence, with public consultation open until November 1 on a bill that could bar violent individuals from workplaces for up to a year.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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