A sharp rise in retail theft across NSW has brought the crime back to pre-pandemic levels, and researchers say the cost-of-living crisis is not to blame.
Retail theft fell significantly during the pandemic, but incidents have increased by 48 per cent in the 24 months to June this year, a NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research report reveals.
The crime of theft has now reached parity with pre-pandemic levels across the state.
NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research executive director Jackie Fitzgerald said the numbers reflect a return to pre-COVID offending behaviour, rather than being driven by inflation or cost-of-living pressures.
Hard liquor continues to be the most frequently reported item stolen, accounting for 37 per cent of incidents in 2022/23.
Thefts of clothing and shoes account for 22 per cent of incidents, while the theft of personal items such as perfume and cosmetics has declined in the past five years, accounting for 13 per cent of incidents.
The average value of items stolen in retail theft incidents reported to police in 2022/23 was $440.
"While still a male-dominated crime, females account for approximately 41 per cent of all retail theft offenders, which is more than most offences," Ms Fitzgerald said.
The vast majority - 85 per cent - of retail theft offenders are adults, although the rate of participation in retail theft is highest among young people aged 14 to 17 years, the report revealed.
