The Palaszczuk Government in Queensland has announced a review into retail trading hours in the state.
Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace says the review could unlock an estimated $200 million annual economic benefit to the state.
“Current anomalies in the state’s retail trading hours are costing Queensland business,” she said.
Stakeholder groups from business, industry, tourism and unions are being invited to join the reference panel. The panel will be chaired by QUT School of Justice Associate Professor and former Speaker of the Queensland Legislative Assembly John Mickel.
“This review is about delivering sensible economic reform that benefits the public, while delivering for workers and business,” Ms Grace said.
In addition to announcing the review, the Government also proposed that Easter Sunday be made a public holiday.
“The NRA is open to the idea of allowing retailers across Queensland having the choice to open their doors on Easter Sunday, but this must be balanced by reform to retail trading hours to ensure small businesses are not adversely impacted,” National Retailers Association CEO Dominique Lamb said.
“The current system of trading hours is archaic, confusing and difficult to understand, so we are working closely with the state Government to bring far greater consistency and simplicity to this complex legal framework.”
Master Grocers Association (MGA) CEO Jos de Bruin says that the MGA appreciated the opportunity to participate in the review.
“We believe that the current legislation has created uncertainty and has stifled the incentive for independent and privately owned businesses to invest, grow and provide additional employment,” he said.
“MGA does not support the further deregulation of trading hours, as that would simply allow the bigger stores – such Woolworths, Coles and Bunnings – to become even more dominant than they are now. This would only result in crowding out smaller retailers and eliminating competition.”