A Practical, Industry-Standard Resource for Café Owners and Managers

Comprehensive Security Guide for Cafés in Queensland, Australia

Prepared for Café Owners and Managers – Independent shops, small chains, and larger operations by Defensor Security Solutions

Introduction

Operating a café in Australia – especially in Queensland – requires not only great coffee and service but also robust security. Cafés face security challenges ranging from petty theft and break-ins to aggressive behavior and cyber risks. In fact, nearly half of Australian small businesses experience some form of crime each year, with average costs around $5,000 in losses (Business safety | City of Gold Coast). Besides financial loss, incidents like armed robberies can severely impact the safety and wellbeing of staff and customers (Business safety | City of Gold Coast).

This guide presents industry-standard security practices tailored to cafés, covering both front-of-house (customer areas) and back-of-house (kitchen, storage, office) concerns. We will explore layered security measures – from physical protections to employee training – to “make it easy for an offender to be seen, and hard for them to gain entry, exit, or benefit from your property” (). Each section provides best-practice guidelines, actionable steps, and checklists. Queensland-specific regulations and Australian standards are highlighted throughout.

For added protection, many café owners turn to experts such as Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane for comprehensive alarm installations. Others choose advanced solutions like Defensor Access Control or Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane to bolster visibility day and night. Recent developments in preventing battery fires also point to specialized monitoring systems like how thermal cameras can prevent lithium battery fires – an issue relevant for cafés that may store e-bikes or e-scooters for deliveries.

By implementing the measures below, café owners can create a safer environment, protect assets, comply with legal obligations, and give staff and customers peace of mind. For more local guidance, you can also refer to Defensor FAQs or their About Defensor page to learn about security innovations specifically developed for Brisbane and beyond.

If your café is near Camp Hill, consider Defensor Security Cameras Camp Hill Brisbane. If you’re further south, options like Daisy Hill security camera installation are also available, and Defensor’s contact page can direct you to the right experts for your location.

Also remember that going directly to Defensor’s main site or their prevent lithium battery fires solutions can open up advanced resources on how thermal imaging and detection can protect cafés from emerging battery risks. Looking at Defensor Fogging Systems Brisbane might help you with innovative security that deters intruders in seconds.

1. Alarm Systems – Types, Positioning, and Response Procedures

Modern alarm systems are a cornerstone of café security, alerting owners or authorities to intrusions or emergencies. An alarm can deter burglars and summon help quickly – but only if it’s properly chosen, installed, and maintained. This section covers the main types of alarms, optimal placement in a café setting, and response plans when alarms activate.

Types of Alarm Systems:
Alarm setups can range from basic local alarms to sophisticated monitored systems:

Audible Local Alarms: These trigger a loud siren (and often flashing strobe light) on-site when sensors detect an intrusion. The noise can scare off intruders and alert nearby people. However, since Queensland Police do not actively monitor alarm systems (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS), response relies on someone (owner, staff, neighbors) hearing the alarm and calling for help.
Monitored Alarms (Back-to-Base): A professional security company monitors the system 24/7. When triggered, signals are sent to a monitoring center, which can then notify the café owner or dispatch security patrols and police if a break-in is verified. Monitored systems provide greater peace of mind and faster response – many police services will only attend alarms that are professionally monitored to filter out false alarms (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS). There is typically an ongoing fee for monitoring, but it ensures someone will respond at any hour. For professional solutions, see Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane or Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane for advanced wireless alarm solutions.
Silent Alarms & Duress Buttons: These are panic-alarms (fixed buttons or hidden PIN codes) that staff can activate during an emergency (like an armed holdup) to silently alert the monitoring center or police (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS). Because they don’t alert the offender, silent alarms are useful in hold-up situations. A duress button is often installed discreetly at the cashier’s station or under counters in cafés.
For specialized consultation on panic buttons, contact Defensor to see how they can integrate duress features with your café’s overall system.

Key Components and Sensors:
A café alarm system usually includes door/window contact sensors (magnetic reed switches) on entry points, motion detectors (PIR sensors) covering the dining area and back rooms, and possibly glass-break sensors on large windows (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS). Consider also sensors for specific risks: for example, linking an alarm to how thermal cameras can prevent lithium battery fires if you store e-bikes or keep battery packs. Additionally, in some high-risk areas, installing Defensor Fogging Systems Brisbane can be a powerful deterrent – once triggered, a dense fog fills the space, forcing intruders to flee.

Ensure the system meets Australian Standards for intruder alarms (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS) and has a battery backup to operate during power outages (Electronic security alarm systems | QPS). It’s wise to get quotes from licensed security equipment installers. In Queensland, consider companies like Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane who hold the required Security Equipment Installer licence (Who installs security systems? | Altronic Security Brisbane).

Placement and Coverage:
Position alarm sensors to cover all potential entry points and vulnerable areas:

Install contact sensors on front doors, back doors, and any windows that open.
Use motion detectors in front-of-house areas (dining/seating space) and back-of-house (kitchen, stockroom, office).
Consider a panic/duress button at the cashier or manager’s desk.
Post alarm signage at entry points (e.g. “Alarmed Premises”). Coupling that with prominent references to your Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane can further deter intruders.

Alarm Response Procedures:
An alarm is only as effective as the response it triggers. Every café should have a clear plan for when the alarm goes off:

Monitored alarm: Keep the monitoring company’s contact details current. Decide who will attend the premises in case of alarm activation. If you’re partnering with a vendor like Defensor, they often have 24/7 support.
Unmonitored alarm: Rely on neighbors or staff hearing the alarm. Provide an emergency call list.
False alarms: Train staff on proper arming/disarming and keep the system well-maintained.
After-hours protocol: If you arrive and suspect a break-in, wait for police or a security patrol. Never enter alone.

Alarm System Best-Practice Checklist:

All doors and accessible windows have sensors.
Motion detectors in key interior areas.
Use licensed installers like Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane for compliance with Australian standards.
Choose between local audible or 24/7 monitored systems.
Label and secure any duress buttons.
Keep alarm codes secure; update them when staff leave.
Test the alarm monthly; reduce false alarms.
Have a written alarm response plan.
Do not enter alone if the alarm indicates a potential burglary.

By having a reliable alarm system and well-drilled response procedures, cafés can significantly reduce after-hours break-in risk and ensure swift action when something goes wrong. For more specifics, check Defensor’s FAQs on alarm troubleshooting.

Defensor home

2. CCTV Surveillance – Camera Placement, Legal Considerations, and Storage

Video surveillance is a powerful tool for deterring crime and providing evidence of incidents. In a café environment, CCTV cameras help monitor customer areas, register points, entrances/exits, and back-of-house spaces. This section outlines how to effectively deploy CCTV, comply with Queensland legal/privacy requirements, and manage your footage responsibly.

(A dome-style security camera mounted on a building exterior. Cafés often use similar cameras for a wide field of view over entrances or dining areas.)

Modern CCTV systems can be unobtrusive and internet-connected, allowing owners to check cameras remotely via smartphone – but they must be set up thoughtfully. For cost-effective systems, you can review Defensor CCTV Pricing or explore an on-site assessment from Defensor Security Cameras Camp Hill Brisbane if you’re in that area.

Camera Placement and Coverage:

Entry and Exit Points: Ensure cameras are capturing clear views of faces entering/exiting. If you need region-specific service, check Daisy Hill security camera installation or Defensor’s contact page for advice on the best vantage points.
Point of Sale (Cash Register/Counter): A camera aimed at the register area helps resolve disputes and deter theft.
Dining Floor: Wide-angle cameras (often dome-style) can cover the seating area. Avoid blind spots by using multiple cameras if necessary.
Back-of-House and Perimeter: Monitoring stock or deliveries. For cost estimates, see Defensor CCTV Pricing or consult Defensor Access Control solutions if you need integrated access plus video.

Legal Considerations and Privacy:

Notification and Consent: Display signs that CCTV is in use. Defensor’s FAQs also address how to keep staff informed.
Privacy Laws: Larger chains may be bound by the Privacy Act; smaller businesses should still follow good practices.
Employee Monitoring: Use CCTV for security, not to micromanage staff.
Specific QLD Regulations (Liquor License): Venues trading past 1am might require cameras covering entries. If you serve alcohol, confirm your compliance.

Storage and Footage Management:

Recording and Retention: Typically 2–4 weeks. Some licensed venues must keep footage 28 days.
Secure Storage: Lock the DVR/NVR in a cabinet. Or use cloud-based solutions, such as those offered by Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane.
Access Control: Limit who can view footage.
Maintenance: Clean lenses, check camera angles, ensure recordings are functioning.

CCTV Best Practices Checklist:

Cameras on entrances/exits, POS, dining floor, back-of-house.
Proper angles and lighting for identification.
Post “CCTV in use” signage, inform staff.
Secure the recorder or use cloud storage.
Retain footage for ~28–30 days, back up important clips.
Restrict access to the system; change passwords regularly.
Comply with liquor license or local regulations.
Integrate with your alarm for video verification.
Regularly consult professionals such as Defensor if you need expansions or updates.

Using CCTV responsibly can help catch and deter criminals while creating a safer atmosphere. Patrons often feel more secure knowing the business is monitored, provided it’s not overly intrusive.

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3. Loss Prevention – Strategies to Reduce Theft and Fraud

Loss prevention in a café encompasses policies and practices to minimize theft – from customers, outsiders, or internally by employees – as well as to prevent fraud and costly errors. This section provides strategies to protect cash, inventory, and revenue integrity.

3.1 Deterring External Theft (Shoplifting, Burglary, Robbery)

Minimize Cash Holdings: Consider going cashless or at least limit cash in the till. Post signage like “Minimal cash kept on premises.” Use Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane or Defensor Access Control to safeguard your doors and secure areas.
Use Security Signage: For example, “No cash kept overnight.” Pair it with signs referencing your Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane to dissuade potential burglars.
Frequent Banking & Vary Routine: Don’t let large bills accumulate. Change your deposit route and times.
Merchandise Controls: If you sell retail items, consider small safeguards like locked displays.
Lighting and Visibility: Keep the café well-lit. Trim plants or clutter that might block line of sight.
Limit Entry Points During Late Hours: Lock side or back doors, funnel customers through one monitored door.
Store Layout: Avoid blind corners. Keep staff-only areas locked.
Robbery Prevention: Use drop safes with time-delay locks. Mark exit doors with height indicators so your CCTV system can capture accurate visuals.

3.2 Preventing Internal Theft and Fraud

Cash Handling Procedures: Enforce dual-control when counting cash. A Defensor security alarm system can also monitor the safe area.
Secure the Safe: Limit who has the combination. Keep the safe locked, possibly employing Defensor Fogging Systems Brisbane as an additional theft deterrent if the safe is in a vulnerable spot.
Inventory Controls: Track stock carefully. Consider Defensor Access Control to manage entry into storage rooms.
Comping and Voids: Monitor no-sale opens, voids, and refunds.
Staff Bags/Personal Items: Have a policy on bag checks or lockers.
Meals and Wastage Policies: Clarify free staff meals and record all wastage.
Background Checks: Especially for keyholding roles.
Surveillance of Staff Areas: Possibly use cameras in store rooms, but respect privacy.
Segregation of Duties: Don’t let one person handle all financial procedures from start to finish.

Employee Training and Honesty Culture:
Promote an environment of integrity. Explain how security measures protect both the café and staff. Encourage reporting suspicious activity. Provide resources such as Defensor FAQs for common concerns about security roles.

3.3 Reducing Fraud and Cons Scams

Cash Handling Scams: Train staff on short-change tricks.
Counterfeit Notes: Provide a UV or detector pen.
Card Fraud: Don’t accept manually entered card details unless properly authorized.
Invoice Scams: Validate all unfamiliar invoices.
Refund Fraud: Manager approvals for refunds above a threshold.

Loss Prevention Checklist:

Post minimal cash signage and leave tills visibly empty overnight.
Remove large bills frequently.
Keep only one entrance open during off-peak times.
Greet every customer to show awareness.
Lock staff-only areas.
Use a drop safe.
Written cash handling protocols.
Monitor inventory.
Check staff references.
POS reports for voids/discounts.
Staff training on scams.
Cultivate honesty and a shared responsibility for security.

Implementing these measures can significantly cut losses. For more specialized solutions (e.g., integrated alarm + camera + fogging), see the main Defensor site or their specialized page on CCTV pricing.

4. Physical Security – Locks, Safes, Windows, and After-Hours Procedures

Physical security measures fortify your café against unauthorized entry, especially during closed hours. This section focuses on strengthening the building itself and outlines best practices for after-hours routines.

4.1 Doors, Locks, and Entry Points

Doors: Use solid core or metal for rear/side entries. Glass doors should have laminated or reinforced glass.
Locks: Invest in high-quality commercial deadbolts. Defensor Access Control can supplement or replace traditional locks with modern solutions.
Security Screens/Grilles: Install on back/service doors.
Door view and lighting: Peepholes or cameras on back doors are essential.
Roller Shutters: In higher-risk areas, consider shutters or folding grilles. Defensor Security Cameras Camp Hill Brisbane sometimes pairs shutters with cameras for comprehensive coverage.

Other Access Points:

Windows and Glazing: Lock windows, consider security film or bars.
Glass shopfront: Security film can slow smash-and-grab attempts.
Roof/Ceiling: Lock roof hatches or duct entries.
Keys and Access Control: Maintain a key register, rekey if keys are lost or staff leave. Or adopt a digital system with Defensor Access Control.

4.2 Safes and Secure Storage

Safe: Choose a robust, burglary-rated safe, bolted to floor/wall. Defensor’s alarm systems can be integrated to monitor safe tampering.
Lockable Storage: Use lockable cabinets for liquor, electronics, or other valuables.
Equipment Security: Secure laptops/POS devices with tethers or locked mounts.

4.3 Windows, Glass, and Exterior Protections

Protective Film: Shatter-resistant film on windows and doors.
Security Screens: Mesh screens like Crimsafe or similar.
Bars or Grilles: On less visible windows, ensure quick-release from inside.
After-hours Visibility: Some businesses leave a light on to allow passersby or police to see in. Coupling cameras from Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane with proper lighting is highly effective.

4.4 Closing and After-Hours Procedures

Cash secured: Deposit or lock it in the safe.
Doors/Windows locked: Double-check everything.
Alarm set: Arm the system. Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane offers advanced arming features if you want remote control or verification.
Lights: Turn off or set them as needed; consider exterior motion lights.
Appliances/Hazards: Prevent fire risks.
Trash Routines: Lock doors if taking out rubbish; never prop them open unattended.
Final exterior check: Ensure no suspicious activity outside.
Leave Together: It’s safer for two staff to exit simultaneously.

For more detailed physical security tips, Defensor’s about page provides insight into how professionals assess building vulnerabilities.

Physical Security Checklist:

Solid external doors with deadbolts.
Lockable windows (possibly with film/screens).
Adequate exterior lighting.
Safe is bolted down, with limited access.
Close procedure checklist.
Keys accounted for in a register.
Periodic perimeter checks.
Good neighbor relations; share contacts.
Fire exit compliance.

Many criminals skip tough targets. Reinforcing your café’s physical barriers dramatically lowers the chance of a break-in.

Defensor Daisy Hill security camera installation

5. Regulatory and Legal Compliance (Queensland & Australian Standards)

Security measures must also comply with laws and regulations. In Queensland, this includes workplace safety obligations, licensing for security providers, privacy/data laws, and liquor licensing conditions if relevant.

Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) Obligations:
Employers must provide a safe work environment (Business crime prevention and premises security | Business Queensland). This includes addressing the risk of violence or robbery. For advanced solutions, Defensor Fogging Systems Brisbane or integrated Defensor Access Control can minimize such risks.

Security Licensing Laws:
Security installers and guards must be licensed. If hiring professionals, verify they have the proper credentials. Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane and Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane are examples of properly licensed operators.

Privacy and Data Protection:

CCTV Footage: Treat as personal info. Display signs and secure recordings.
Customer Data: If you collect names/emails, handle them per Australian Privacy Principles.
Employee Data: Keep staff data secure.

CCTV and Surveillance Devices Laws:
Don’t record audio without consent. Post notices that the premises are under video surveillance. Defensor’s FAQs address common questions on lawful CCTV usage.

Liquor Licensing Security Conditions:
If your café has a liquor license and trades late, you may be required to have CCTV. Check the Defensor CCTV Pricing if you need to expand coverage.

Security Alarms and Police Response:
Police may not respond to unverified alarms. Professional monitoring (like from Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane) can help ensure prompt action.

Insurance Requirements:
Review your policy for security obligations. Often, insurers require specified locks, alarms, or safes. If you’re unsure, contact Defensor for an insurance-friendly security plan.

Australian Standards and Best Practice Codes:

AS/NZS 2201 – intruder alarm systems.
AS 4806 – CCTV standards.
Data Security (PCI-DSS) for card payments.
QLD CPTED guidelines – Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design.

Incident Reporting:
Report break-ins, robberies, or serious incidents to police. If staff are harmed, you may need to notify WorkSafe. For data breaches, follow the Notifiable Data Breach scheme if applicable.

Stay compliant to avoid fines and liability. Doing a periodic “compliance audit” of your café’s security systems—possibly assisted by Defensor’s professional team—helps ensure you remain up-to-date.

Defensor prevent lithium battery fires

6. Cybersecurity Basics for Cafés (POS Systems, Wi-Fi, etc.)

Even a small café relies on technology: point-of-sale systems, online ordering, email, possibly public Wi-Fi. Cybersecurity might not seem urgent, but a cyber incident can be costly. Here are steps to secure your POS, networks, and data.

6.1 Securing Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems and Payment Data

Keep POS Software Up-to-date: Install updates to patch vulnerabilities.
Use Strong Passwords/PINs: Each staff has a unique POS PIN. Change admin credentials if staff leave.
Protect Card Data: Ensure compliance with PCI-DSS. Regularly check terminals for tampering.
Wi-Fi for POS: Separate it from the guest network. Possibly consult Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane or Defensor Access Control if you want advanced integrated systems.
Backups and Redundancy: Save daily sales data. Keep a manual fallback for outages.

6.2 Wi-Fi and Network Security

Use Separate Networks: One for customers (guest Wi-Fi), one for business.
Strong Wi-Fi Passwords: Even for guest Wi-Fi, use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption.
Secure Your Router: Change default admin password, update firmware.
Bandwidth Management: Limit guest Wi-Fi if needed.
Monitor Connected Devices: Block unknown devices.

6.3 Device Security and Data Protection

Antivirus/Anti-Malware: On any Windows (or Mac) systems.
Operating System Updates: Turn on automatic updates.
Use Standard Accounts: Avoid giving staff full admin rights on the system.
Secure Business Accounts: Strong passwords + multi-factor authentication.
Email Vigilance: Train staff to avoid phishing scams.
Back Up Important Data: Cloud or external drives.
Encryption and Device Locks: Password/PIN lock your tablets, possibly full-disk encryption.

6.4 Cyber Awareness for Staff

Train Staff: Safe internet use, how to spot suspicious emails.
Password Handling: Don’t reuse or share.
Reporting Issues: Encourage immediate reporting of any anomalies.
Use of Personal Devices: Restrict them to the guest network to protect business systems.

The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) offers a Small Business Cyber Security Guide. Pair these tips with solutions from professional security providers (like Defensor) to ensure holistic protection.

Cybersecurity Checklist for Cafés:

Separate guest Wi-Fi; secure it with WPA2/WPA3.
Keep all software updated.
Strong passwords, enable MFA.
Antivirus on PCs.
Regular backups.
Inspect payment devices for tampering.
Limit staff account privileges.
Train staff on phishing and scams.
Plan for outages.
Change default passwords on any IoT devices.
Disconnect compromised devices, seek help quickly.

Treat cybersecurity as part of your overall security posture. It can save you from major threats like ransomware or data theft.

Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane

7. Emergency Protocols – Responding to Incidents (Break-ins, Aggressive Customers, etc.)

Even with excellent preventive measures, incidents can occur. Your response in the first critical moments can significantly impact outcomes. This section provides guidelines for handling break-ins, aggressive customers, and armed robberies.

7.1 Break-ins (Burglary) – After-Hours Incidents

If alarm triggers at night: Don’t rush in alone. Call police and wait. If you have monitoring with Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane, they may dispatch security patrol.
Discovering a break-in on arrival: Don’t enter. Call police from a safe location.
Preserve Evidence: Wait for police, do not disturb the scene. Show them any relevant Defensor CCTV Camera Systems Brisbane footage.
Document Losses: Inventory items missing, photograph damage.
Insurance Notification: Contact your insurer promptly.
Staff Wellbeing: A burglary can be distressing, offer support or counseling if needed.

7.2 Aggressive or Disorderly Customers

Train in De-escalation: Stay calm, keep distance, try to defuse.
Never Argue or Insult: De-escalate rather than “win.”
Code Words: A discreet way for staff to call for backup.
Remove Potential Weapons: Steer the person away from dangerous objects.
Refuse Service if Threatening: Ask them to leave, mention calling police if necessary.
Contacting Police: Dial 000 if violence escalates.
Protect Others: Encourage other patrons to move away or exit.
Post-incident: Document everything. Offer staff support.

7.3 Armed Robbery or Armed Aggression

Stay Calm, Do Not Resist: Comply with the robber’s demands.
Silent Alarm: Use if safe to do so (e.g., Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane duress button).
Observe Details: Height, clothing, tattoos, vehicle.
Call 000 ASAP: Once the robber leaves, secure the door.
Preserve Evidence: Avoid touching surfaces they touched.
Witnesses: Ask them to stay until police arrive.
Staff Wellbeing: Armed robberies are traumatic—debrief, offer counseling, and reassure employees.
Post-incident Review: Could additional measures help? Maybe Defensor Fogging Systems Brisbane or more cameras.

7.4 Other Emergencies and General Preparedness

Fire, Medical, Natural Disasters: Have an evacuation plan.
Practice Drills: Role-play different scenarios.
Incident Review: Each time, learn what can be improved. Consulting Defensor’s contact page or their experts can help refine your protocols after a real event.

Conclusion

Security in a café involves a holistic approach: physical barriers, technology, procedures, training, and awareness. By following the best practices in this guide, café owners can reduce the likelihood of incidents and mitigate their impact. Whether you’re a small daytime espresso bar or a larger café operating late with a liquor license, adapt these strategies as needed.

In Queensland, be mindful of local regulations (e.g., licensing for installers like Defensor Security Alarm Systems Brisbane), privacy requirements, or liquor rules. Maintaining a robust security posture is an ongoing process—regularly review and update your plan as threats evolve or your café expands.

If you need tailored assistance, Defensor’s main site or Defensor FAQs can guide you to the right products (alarms, CCTV, fogging, access control, or advanced thermal solutions for preventing lithium battery fires). Their team also handles Daisy Hill security camera installation and Security Cameras Camp Hill Brisbane, alongside general Brisbane and regional areas.

A security-conscious team—trained in standard operating procedures, emergency protocols, and everyday vigilance—is one of the best assets any café can have. Empowering staff with clear instructions and the right technology (like Defensor Ajax Security Brisbane alarms or integrated Defensor CCTV) enables you to focus on what you do best: serving customers. With robust measures quietly working in the background, you can provide a welcoming, safe, secure, and resilient café experience for everyone.

Sources:

Queensland Police Service – Business Security Guide () ()
Business Security Tips (Business security | QPS)
Armed Robbery Awareness ()
Business Queensland – Crime Prevention and Premises Security (Business crime prevention and premises security | Business Queensland)
CCTV Legislation for Licensed Venues (Complying with CCTV legislation for licensed venues | Business Queensland)
City of Gold Coast – Business Safety Tips (Business safety | City of Gold Coast)
Queensland Office of Information Commissioner – Camera Surveillance and Privacy Guidelines
Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) – Small Business Cyber Security Guide (Keeping your business cyber secure | Business Queensland)

Comprehensive Security Guide for Cafés in Brisbane