As the Christmas season approaches, the magic of shopping centres across Australia begins to sparkle once again. From bustling gift aisles to vibrant food courts, December brings crowds, excitement, and unfortunately… stress.
This year, the “Be Kind in Retail” campaign, proudly supported by ASIAL, Shopping Centre Council of Australia, and leading retail partners, reminds everyone that Kindness Never Goes Out of Style.
At AS Security, we couldn’t agree more. Our licensed guards work every day alongside cleaners, retail staff, and management teams to keep shopping centres safe, welcoming, and calm — especially during this hectic time of year.
Because while Christmas brings joy, it also brings challenges — and kindness is the key to keeping everyone safe and smiling.
The Christmas Rush – A Season of Joy and Jitters
Let’s be real — the holiday rush can test anyone’s patience. Parking lots overflow, queues stretch out the door, tempers flare, and retail staff push through extra-long shifts.
It’s easy to forget that behind every counter, broom, or security uniform is a person doing their best to make your day a little smoother.
This is why AS Security stands behind the Be Kind in Retail message. A simple smile, a thank-you, or a calm response can make all the difference — not only for the people working but also for how safe and enjoyable your shopping experience feels.
Security Guards – The Unsung Guardians of the Festive Season
When most people think of Christmas shopping, they picture bright lights, carols, and sales. But few realise the crucial role that security officers play behind the scenes.
During the Christmas season, retail crime and anti-social behaviour skyrocket across Australia. Theft, aggressive behaviour, and parking disputes rise sharply in shopping centres.
That’s where our team at AS Security steps in — to protect customers, staff, and property, while maintaining the friendly, community atmosphere that every shopping precinct deserves.
Our guards aren’t just there to stop trouble. They’re trained to de-escalate situations with calm professionalism, to offer assistance, guide lost shoppers, help during emergencies, and ensure that every family feels safe while enjoying their time out.
It Takes a Team – Security, Cleaners, and Retailers Working Together
The Be Kind in Retail campaign celebrates not just security guards but also cleaners, retail associates, and all frontline staff who make Christmas shopping possible.
At AS Security, we work shoulder-to-shoulder with cleaners, maintenance crews, and management to keep every environment clean, organised, and safe.
Whether it’s late-night shopping in Chadstone, a festive market in Geelong, or a regional retail park in Ballarat, every site depends on teamwork. And teamwork thrives on respect.
This Christmas, a simple act of courtesy towards any worker — saying “thanks mate” to a cleaner or giving a friendly nod to a security guard — spreads the spirit of the season far more than any fancy gift could.
Respect Is Safety’
There’s a direct link between kindness and safety. When shoppers treat workers respectfully, staff feel confident, communication flows better, and tensions don’t escalate.
AS Security believes in proactive safety — not just reacting to incidents but preventing them through positive interactions and awareness.
A smile can calm frustration. A polite word can defuse anger. And respect creates a ripple effect that makes the entire shopping environment safer.
That’s why our message this year is simple:
Stay safe. Shop safe. Be respectful to all.
Why This is Matters More Than Ever
According to recent industry reports, retail crime in Australia has jumped more than 50% in the last two years. Incidents of verbal abuse and physical assault against staff have become disturbingly common.
Security guards, cleaners, and retail workers are on the frontlines — not just of customer service but of community wellbeing.
The Be Kind in Retail campaign aims to reach over 250 million shoppers nationwide, reminding everyone that kindness is free and powerful.
At AS Security, we see this message come to life daily. We’ve watched tense moments turn peaceful because someone chose patience over anger. We’ve seen guards go above and beyond to comfort lost children or assist elderly shoppers.
That’s the Australia we’re proud to protect.
Five Simple Ways to Be Kind While You Shop
- Say hello to staff — they’re people too!
- Be patient with queues, returns, and parking delays.
- Respect boundaries — security guards and cleaners have jobs to do; let them do it safely.
- Lend a hand — if someone drops their bags or looks lost, offer help.
- Spread the cheer — a kind gesture can lift the whole room.
A Message to Retail Owners and Centre Managers
If you manage a shopping centre, retail store, or event space — now is the time to review your security plan.
Crowd management, theft prevention, and emergency readiness are vital during the festive rush. AS Security offers:
- Fully licensed, experienced retail and shopping centre guards
- Customer service–oriented security officers trained in de-escalation and communication
- CCTV monitoring and incident reporting
- Mobile patrols and after-hours protection
- Collaboration with cleaning and facility teams for full-site coverage
Our approach is simple: protect people, property, and peace.
Together, We Can Make This Christmas Safer and Kinder
This season, let’s all remember — the holidays are about connection, not confrontation.
When we smile at a stranger, thank a cleaner, or respect a guard’s instructions, we contribute to something bigger than ourselves.
From the AS Security family to yours, we encourage every shopper, retailer, and team member to embrace the message:
🎁 Kindness Never Goes Out of Style.
Stay safe. Shop safe. Be respectful.
Because when we choose kindness, everyone wins — and every shopping centre becomes a safer, happier place to celebrate Christmas.
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