Luke Percy-Dove is an independent consultant well-recognised as a security, crime prevention & counter-terrorism specialist. He is an ASIS member attached to the Victoria Australia Chapter. His article on Counter-Terrorism Security Practices in Business is timely and provides relevant considerations for security leaders to minimise risk. The article is reproduced with permission below.

A truck driver who deceived his doctor into thinking he was re-training in security was sentenced to nine months gaol. Worksafe acted when they received an anonymous tip-off that the former car rental depot manager was working whilst receiving compensation for a workplace injury.

Experts advise an engaged workforce is critical for any organisation and yet studies show around 73% of workers feel disengaged. Keeping staff motivated and valued is a challenge across organisations of all sizes. Below are some best practice tips to assist security managers and business leaders.

Nationally and after assault and sexual assault, armed robbery is the third most common violent crime reported. According to the Australian Institute of Criminology this trend has remained consistent for over 10 years.

Victoria Police advise that businesses adopting risk management principles can reduce crime against the business, staff and customers. The strategies introduced are often contingent on the type of business such as those trading overnight, handling cash, frequented by the young, etc. The location can also contribute to risk.

Data throughout Australia reveals ongoing concerns regarding non-violent shop theft, otherwise known as "shoplifting". The Australian Institute of Criminology report over 500,000 incidents nationally and Victoria Police contend growth rates now record 50,000 incidents annually.

The Prime Minister Tony Abbott recently commented on a review that confirmed Australia has strong, well-coordinated counterterrorism arrangements but there is more to do as it is becoming harder to combat terrorism.

The Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) regularly reports on crime trends to provide a greater understanding of risk. In its latest report the AIC identifies our youth as our greatest risk for offending criminal behaviours.