Md Abdullah Yousuf (security.australian@gmail.com):  A security guard tragically lost his life in the stabbing rampage at Westfield Bondi Junction, marking the identification of the fourth victim. The notorious terror attack unfolded suddenly on the late afternoon of Saturday, April 13, 2024

Joel Cauchi, aged 40, fatally stabbed six people and injured at least 12 others in a violent rampage at the bustling shopping center on Saturday afternoon.

I’m saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Faraz Tahir, a dedicated security guard who lost his life while serving the public. It’s heartbreaking to hear about the assault on the other security officer who was in the ICU. Their commitment to protecting others highlights the risks and sacrifices made by individuals in the line of duty. It’s important to honor their service and remember their contributions to public safety. Such incidents underscore the need to ensure the safety and well-being of those who work tirelessly to protect others.

During a tragic incident at Westfield Marion Centre in Adelaide on Sunday, June 23, 2024, the center went into lockdown due to a terror attack. According to the South Australia Ambulance Service, amidst the chaos, a 77-year-old woman sustained a shoulder injury while evacuating the premises, and another individual in their 30s suffered a knee injury.

A substantial police presence, including the deployment of STAR Group officers, was mobilized at the Centre to initiate a search for the groups linked to the initial disturbance. The lockdown occurred within less than three months of the horrifying incident at the Westfield in Bondi Junction.

Just 10 days following a significant training operation involving the police at the shopping centre, the incident occurred, highlighting the importance of preparedness for potential violent scenarios.

In another unfortunate event, a man faced charges after reportedly slashing two security guards and harming a nurse at a hospital in western Sydney. Authorities have been investigating potential mental health and drug-related concerns in connection with the incident.

Ensuring the safety of our healthcare staff, including security personnel in hospitals, remains a top priority for the government, as expressed by the official during a statement to reporters on Saturday. “We are deeply concerned for their well-being,” she emphasized. “It is paramount that individuals feel secure in their workplace.

On the unfortunate date of June 21, 2024, yet another distressing attack occurred.

NSW Minister Jo Haylen expressed grave concern over the incident, emphasizing the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the dedicated healthcare workers at hospitals throughout the state.

“The government places a high priority on the safety of our healthcare personnel, including the dedicated security guards at our hospitals,” she emphasized during a briefing with reporters on Saturday. “Ensuring a secure work environment is crucial for the well-being of everyone involved.”

On the 24th of February 2024, tragedy struck as a security guard lost his life due to an alleged assault outside a Sydney pub. The victim, Mousa Alzaher, a 30-year-old newcomer from Saudi Arabia, was only on his second shift as a security guard in Australia when the unfortunate incident occurred.

Authorities have sealed off the hotel premises, initiating a thorough investigation into the events that transpired. In a distressing incident at Canberra Centre in Civic, a security guard was reportedly attacked on Saturday morning by an individual who had been previously barred from the premises earlier that week.

Early Sunday, on the 7th of January 2024, an unfortunate altercation unfolded inside a Braddon pub around 1:10 am. Authorities were alerted to two patrons reportedly assaulting a security guard. The two individuals involved have been identified and are currently cooperating with the police investigation.

In a separate incident, a 34-year-old man from Reid is scheduled to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court on charges of assaulting a security guard at the Canberra Centre. This incident took place the previous Saturday morning. Additionally, on the 20th of April 2024 at approximately 10:30 am, a man was reported to have punched a security guard at another location before fleeing the scene on foot.

The escalating number of attacks on security guards raises serious concerns as they are left defenceless. The pivotal question remains: who bears responsibility for these relentless assaults? What concrete and lasting steps have been implemented by authorities to address this pressing issue? How can a security officer carry out their responsibilities and return home safely at the end of their shift like any other individual? Safeguarding our dedicated guards is paramount.

In a statement, Md Abdullah Yousuf, CEO of Australian Security & Protective Services Sydney, emphasized that Australia remains vulnerable to the threat of terrorism. He highlighted the collaborative efforts between Australian authorities and the private sector in safeguarding crowded areas. Yousuf underscored the capabilities of law enforcement and intelligence agencies in detecting and thwarting potential threats, citing their successful track record in preventing terrorist attacks.

Acknowledging the inevitability that not all terrorist attacks can be averted, it is crucial to enhance national frameworks to aid owners and operators in fortifying crowded areas against such threats. Owners and operators bear the fundamental obligation of safeguarding their premises, showcasing a duty of care to shield individuals working, patronizing, or visiting the site from various potential risks, including acts of terrorism.

The majority of security personnel in Australia operate without firearms, raising concerns among industry experts who assert that under existing regulations, they are ill-equipped to effectively counter threats posed by assailants wielding dangerous weapons.

In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 1.1 million security guards in Australia. Consider the countless others worldwide who face similar risks each day without proper safeguards. It’s imperative that we advocate for our security guards. They deserve our support as they are unable to defend themselves or others effectively.

Security guards would benefit from upholding stringent standards by undergoing regular training, donning personal protective equipment (PPE), remaining vigilant, practicing effective communication, maintaining a professional demeanour, exhibiting composure and control in emergencies, adhering to standard operating procedures, prioritizing physical fitness, nurturing mental well-being, staying prepared for any situation, adhering to site-specific protocols, and ensuring thorough handover briefings.

Despite possessing extensive expertise, diverse experience, and impeccable physical fitness, a seasoned security guard remains vulnerable while on duty. Equipped with tools such as batons, capsicum sprays, tasers, pepper spray/mace, handcuffs, powerful two-way radios, webbing belts, protective jackets, and even firearms when necessary, security guards adapt their gear based on the unique requirements of each venue.

To enhance security guards’ preparedness, the government could offer hands-free techniques like martial arts training and provide proper protective jackets. Additionally, opting for comfortable sneakers or running shoes instead of traditional black leather shoes would ensure guards are equipped for agile and swift responses during their duties.

Our security guards serve as the primary defence in safeguarding our shopping centres, public spaces, and private establishments. However, there’s a critical gap in equipping them with the necessary tools to ensure effective protection. This concern extends beyond their individual safety to encompass the well-being of all those under their watchful eye.

Who will bear responsibility for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation? Who should be held accountable? It’s crucial that we reflect and take decisive action to prevent future tragedies.

I respectfully urge the Australian government, policymakers, and private companies to carefully reassess and update their policies concerning the provision of necessary protective gear for security personnel. Let’s guarantee that those who safeguard us have the essential tools to carry out their duties effectively and safely.

The authorities must promptly conduct a comprehensive review and enlist the expertise of appropriate advisors to address these critical issues before any more security officers lose their lives in their duty to maintain public safety.