The National Retail Association will today address the Brisbane City Council on its application currently before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission to harmonise trading hours across south east Queensland.
NRA CEO Trevor Evans said the move to unify 10 separate trading hours time zones between Noosa and Coolangatta and west to Ipswich would benefit the economy, create jobs and reduce the confusion on when shops can open.
“Currently, some residents in the south east, depending on where they live, get to shop on Saturday evenings, whereas others have the doors closed at 5pm sharp. This is an old rule that has not been reviewed in 20 years,” Mr Evans said.
“Our application to create a single south east Queensland zone for trading hours, where all stores would be able to open between 7 am and 9 pm on weekdays and Saturdays will provide more consistent access to stores especially shopping centres for residents and tourists across the region.
“This is all about choice for both shop owners and customers. No shops will be forced to open, rather those who do want to trade earlier or later, can.”
Mr Evans said if successful, the move would add $111 million to the Queensland economy, and drive the creation of 1000 new jobs.
“Young Queenslanders looking for work and those who already work in the retail industry will directly benefit from this move giving employers and store managers greater control over their own operations,” Mr Evans said.
“This is a win-win for business owners, customers, local jobs and the economy.”
The National Retail Association is Australia’s largest and most diverse retail industry association, and it has been helping Australian businesses grow for close to 100 years. Its membership comprises more than 19,000 stores and outlets and covers all the categories of retail, including fashion, groceries, homewares, hardwares, fast food and services. Its membership ranges from the smallest corner stores to Australia’s largest retail chains, department stores and franchise groups.
NRA CEO Trevor Evans is available for interviews. Please contact the National Retail Association’s media unit on 07 3240 0163 or 0467 792 013.