An advisory group set up to tackle the ‘urgent issues’ surrounding retail crime is set to disband four months ahead of schedule.

The Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime was established by the Minister of Justice, Paul Goldsmith, in July 2024. Its membership consisted of industry professionals, creating a team of five.

As of February 2026, that team is down to two members.

Upon its establishment, the group said it “was established to provide ministers with high-quality, independent advice, and to develop practical, evidence-based proposals, policies, and legislative recommendations to tackle urgent issues related to retail crime.”

It added: “Our mission is to create actionable solutions that place victims at the centre of justice and effectively deter offenders. 

“By adopting proven, successful policies from around the world and providing independent advice on policy, prevention, detection, and deterrence, we aim to significantly reduce retail crime and enhance cross-agency collaboration to address its societal drivers.”

The group – which was set to run until September – had fallen victim to infighting among members. RNZ reported that Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young described her relationship with Sunny Kaushal, the group’s chair, as “untenable.”

Criticism also came over the group’s spending habits, with reports of Kaushal invoicing for more than $230,000 in expenses. Kaushal maintains that the group operated under budget.

Justice Minister Goldsmith has defended the group’s performance amid widespread criticism. The opposition Labour Party has described it as a “disaster”.