Sydney, April 17: Following the recent terror attack at Christ The Good Shepherd Church and the incident at Westfield Bondi Junction, Richard Theodorakis, Founder and Managing Director of Pride Security Group, has voiced significant concerns regarding the preparedness and effectiveness of security measures in Australia.
At Westfield Bondi Junction, the security personnel were inadequately equipped and trained, lacking essential tools like batons or handcuffs, which compromised their ability to protect the public.
“Westfield security staff have less equipment than a cleaner. Typically, nothing but a radio,” Theodorakis highlighted.
He stressed the necessity for venues with high foot traffic to have a specialized incident response team that is trained to manage attacks without needing to wait for police backup.
Theodorakis further explained that the criteria to become a security guard are minimal, encompassing age and background checks, with most training provided informally by supervisors.
“We provide four times the average security training to new staff, plus our staff are equipped with tools such as batons, handcuffs and have the ability to wear bulletproof and stab-proof body armour,” he stated. This approach not only equips guards more effectively but also enhances their authority and presence, potentially deterring criminal actions.
In New South Wales alone, there are 60,000 security guards who do not receive the same level of training as first responders, leaving them and the public they protect vulnerable.
The absence of compulsory bulletproof or stab-proof body armour and the challenging security licensing conditions are additional hurdles that need addressing.
Theodorakis also criticized the economic pressures within the security industry, which lead to compromised service quality.
“We are aggressive in speaking out and putting responsibility on the customer to understand that cheaper security is at the expense of workers who are not getting the training, insurance, pay, or legal entitlements that they should be to keep them and the public safe,” he commented.
The competitive pricing and tight budgets often result in subpar security practices and unreliable subcontracting arrangements, undermining public trust and safety.
Furthermore, Theodorakis advises against performing a citizen’s arrest due to the legal risks involved, particularly the liability for excessive force or injury.
“Once an offender has been disarmed or is no longer a threat, citizens performing a citizen’s arrest can be held liable,” he warned, pointing out the dangers of actions like positional asphyxiation.
Safety Tips for Individuals in Unsafe Situations:
- Learn Basic Self-Defense: Increases chances of survival and escape.
- Remain Calm: Assess the situation without panic to make clear decisions.
- Find Cover: Utilize walls, pillars, or other barriers for protection.
- Evade Danger: Move away from the threat, towards exits or crowded areas.
- Alert Others: Shout loudly to attract help and warn others.
- Activate Alarms: Use available systems to notify authorities and bystanders.
- Use Barricades/Improvised Weapons: Block paths with heavy objects or arm yourself with available items.
- Avoid Confrontation: Focus on escape rather than engagement.
- Administer First Aid: Help injured individuals if it’s safe to do so.
- Know Your Exits: Always be aware of emergency exits and escape routes.
- Stay Low, Protect Vital Areas: Reduce exposure by crouching and covering head, neck, and chest.
- Cooperate with Law Enforcement: Follow instructions from authorities and provide useful information about the situation.
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