He has been refused bail and is scheduled to appear in Parramatta Local Court.

In response to this incident, Scentre Group, which operates Westfield shopping centers, is reviewing its security measures following a recent knife attack at Westfield Bondi Junction.

The company has increased security personnel and provided stab-proof vests for its security staff to enhance safety.

The incident occurred around 9:30 AM on Saturday when a 24-year-old man allegedly stole items from a store in the Westfield Parramatta shopping center.

Following the theft, Lachlan Ebejer armed himself with a knife in another store and threatened a customer.

Ebejer reportedly brandished the knife near the head of a 36-year-old customer who confronted him.

The confrontation caused Ebejer to flee the scene, leaving the knife behind.

Police arrived shortly after and attempted to arrest Ebejer, who allegedly tried to assault the officers.

During the arrest, police subdued Ebejer and discovered he was in possession of 69 stolen gift cards and a pair of earrings.

Ebejer has been charged with multiple offenses, including shoplifting, using a knife in a public place to cause fear, and intimidating police.