Bunnings shoppers react to new rules on bladed tools

When you think of Bunnings Warehouse, you might picture the iconic sausage sizzle, a maze of home improvement treasures, and a generally laid-back Australian shopping experience. But for one Queensland tradie, a recent visit to the Caloundra Bunnings on the Sunshine Coast turned into a head-scratching encounter that has since sparked widespread debate and left shoppers across the nation stunned.

Shane, a mechanic who shares his experiences online as @procheck_automotive, was in for a surprise when he went to pick up a simple garden hoe, only to find it locked behind a perspex screen plastered with warning signs. The signs were clear: ‘The sale of knives and other controlled items to minors is prohibited,’ and customers were instructed to seek assistance for access to these products.

In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Shane documented his confusion as he was informed by a Bunnings team member that he couldn’t even touch the garden hoe without being escorted to the checkout to purchase it immediately. ‘I thought it was a bit bizarre. I’ve never seen that before,’ Shane remarked, pointing out the inconsistency as more dangerous items like shears and saws were freely available on the shelves.

The new rule, which has been called ‘weird’ and ‘ridiculous’ by commenters, is a result of recent laws from the Queensland State Government that came into effect on September 1. These laws classify knives and other bladed items as controlled items, a response to a rise in offences involving such tools, particularly by minors. The National Retail Association has highlighted the necessity of these laws due to the concerning trend.

Bunnings, a staple in the Australian hardware retail sector, has taken steps to comply with the new legislation. Marg Walford, Queensland Bunnings General Manager of Operations, emphasised the company’s commitment to community safety and the importance of adhering to the new requirements, which include secure storage and clear signage.

‘Our stores will continue to require customers to prove they are at least 18 years old before they can purchase bladed items, in line with our existing policy,’ Ms. Walford stated, assuring that Bunnings will follow the advice of regulatory authorities to ensure the safe sale of its products.

The implications of these laws are far-reaching, affecting a wide array of retailers beyond Bunnings, from supermarkets to sporting goods shops, and even extending to non-business organisations and online sales. The goal is to create a safer environment for all, but it has undoubtedly led to some unexpected consequences, such as Shane’s bewildering experience.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you experienced similar situations at your local Bunnings or other retailers? Do you think the new laws are effective in enhancing safety, or do they go too far in limiting access to everyday tools? Share your perspective in the comments below and let us know how you’re adjusting to these changes in your DIY projects or day-to-day shopping.

Also read: Kangaroo makes an unexpected appearance at Bunnings store in Albany