Retail Theft

In Western Australia, stealing is defined as when a person fraudulently takes anything capable of being stolen or fraudulently converts any property to his own use or to the use of any other person.

As of 1 July 2024, new laws were introduced to deter repeat shoplifting and petty theft, by expanding the sentencing options available to the Courts. Prior to the reform, a person was only subjected to a “fine only” penalty if they were caught shoplifting. The maximum penalty for a person that is charged with stealing of an item valued $1,000 or less was a $6,000 fine.

Shoplifters are no longer only subjected to a ‘fine only’ penalty for stealing items value $1,000 or less. Instead, a person will be convicted of their third stealing offence within the past 12 months, they may now face up to 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $24,000.

This reform specifically targets repeat offenders engaging with repeated shoplifting and petty theft. The heavier penalty is designed to deter individuals from committing this offence.

Penalties for Stealing

Despite this reform, the penalties for a stealing offence may still vary depending on factors such as the value of the stolen objects and the circumstances surrounding the theft.

Where an individual has not committed three stealing offences within the last year, the maximum penalty is a fine of up to $6,000, if the value of the stolen goods is valued at $1,000 or less.

If the value of the stolen goods is $50,000 or less, the maximum penalty is a fine of up to $24,000 and/or imprisonment of 2 years.

For serious stealing offences, dealt with in the District Court, the maximum penalty is 7 years imprisonment.

Need Legal Advice?

If you require legal assistance, Kate King Legal can help. We are a boutique firm of specialist criminal defence lawyers based in Perth CBD, with extensive experience in assault offences.

If you need legal guidance on criminal charges or any related matters, call us on (08) 9467 3333 or click here to submit an online enquiry