Visible policing returns to suburban malls as Christmas shopping begins
Protective Services Officers (PSOs) are reinstating their presence in suburban shopping centres for the upcoming Christmas season. After navigating the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, these officers will be deployed to provide visible deterrence against anti-social and violent behaviour in public spaces, ensuring a safer environment for shoppers, workers, and families during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Why PSOs are back in shopping centres
The decision to reintroduce PSOs to suburban malls highlights a renewed focus on public safety during peak shopping times. Christmas often brings higher foot traffic, crowded aisles, and elevated tensions, which can lead to conflicts or unsafe situations. PSOs are trained to respond quickly to incidents, manage crowds, and assist vulnerable individuals, helping to prevent minor issues from escalating into serious harm.
Public safety experts note that the visible presence of trained officers acts as a deterrent to would-be offenders while offering reassurance to residents who may have concerns about their safety in busy commercial districts.
What PSOs bring to the Christmas shopping environment
PSOs specialise in rapid response, incident management, and community engagement. In shopping centres, their duties often include:
- Monitoring high-traffic areas to identify potential hazards early
- Assisting shoppers who need directions, help with mobility, or medical aid
- Coordinating with mall security, local police, and emergency services
- Engaging with local community groups to address safety concerns
- Providing a visible, friendly presence that discourages anti-social behaviour
While their role is primarily preventive, PSOs are trained to respond calmly and decisively when a situation requires escalation, ensuring that incidents are managed with minimal disruption to the public.
What shoppers can expect during the rollout
From late November through December, PSOs will increase patrols in common areas such as entrances, food courts, and around popular event spaces. Shoppers may notice foot patrols, rapid response teams, and increased communication between mall staff and emergency services. Localised briefings may also empower PSOs to address specific safety concerns in different suburbs, tailoring their approach to the unique dynamics of each shopping centre.
Retailers and centre management emphasise that PSOs are part of a broader safety strategy, complementing CCTV surveillance, well-lit environments, clear wayfinding, and trained staff on the floor. The aim is to create a secure, welcoming atmosphere where customers can browse, dine, and enjoy seasonal activities without undue fear of disruption.
Community response and considerations
Public reactions to PSO deployments are mixed but generally supportive when framed as a precaution rather than punitive policing. Community leaders stress the importance of visible safety measures that respect shopper privacy and foster trust between the public and security personnel. Ongoing training in de-escalation, cultural sensitivity, and accessibility is essential to ensure PSOs serve all shoppers effectively, including families with young children, seniors, and visitors with disabilities.
Critics argue that increased policing in public spaces should be part of a balanced approach that also addresses root causes of anti-social behaviour, such as youth outreach programs, social services, and community engagement initiatives. Proponents respond that PSOs provide immediate capability to respond to incidents, which is crucial during the high-stress Christmas period.
Looking ahead
As Christmas shopping intensifies, PSOs in suburban shopping centres will be closely watched by retailers, local councils, and residents. The success of this deployment will hinge on maintaining a delicate balance: ensuring safety and accessibility while preserving the festive, inclusive atmosphere that makes shopping centres popular gathering places during the holiday season.
