Coles has decided to withdraw kitchen knives from all its Australian supermarkets following a serious stabbing incident involving a staff member in Ipswich, Queensland.

The incident, which occurred at Yamanto Central Shopping Centre on January 13, 2025, involved a 13-year-old boy who has since been charged with attempted murder.

The victim, Claudia Campomayor Watt, a 63-year-old employee, was critically injured and remains in stable condition at Brisbane's Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Despite the withdrawal, Coles will continue to allow the redemption of SMEG kitchen knives from the service desk until January 21, 2025, due to an ongoing promotion.

Concerns are growing about the impact of strict youth crime laws in Queensland, as the number of children under 14 in adult police watch houses has increased by 50% in the past year.

Watt's family expressed their shock over the incident and gratitude towards the first responders and the public who assisted in her rescue.

The stabbing took place shortly before 5:30 PM, with the knife penetrating her back and emerging through her abdomen, leading to her critical injuries.

Police have stated that the stabbing was a random act, with the boy acting alone during the attack.

This incident has reignited discussions about Queensland's law and order policies, particularly regarding the absence of attempted murder in new legislation proposed by the LNP government.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, who has been under scrutiny since taking office in October 2024, is committed to making further changes to youth justice laws.

These proposed laws would impose adult penalties on young offenders, including mandatory life sentences for murder convictions.

Justin Power, secretary of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association Queensland, remarked that Coles' decision to withdraw knives is a reasonable response to the incident.