The National Retail Association today called on the State Government to review Queensland’s outdated trading hours laws and regulations, following a spate of uncertainty from businesses about when they were required to close on Anzac Day.
“The NRA completely supports the public holiday and trading restrictions on Anzac Day. We believe this is a sacred day in the Australian calendar, and commemorations of our brave soldiers should not compete with shopping,” Chief Executive Trevor Evans said.
“However, we were inundated with calls from retail businesses who simply could not understand their legal obligations because of the complex nature of the Queensland trading hours laws and because the rules are so different compared to other states.
“Businesses were required to remain closed for different periods of time, depending on a range of factors including their staff numbers, ownership model, location and product range.
“In each case we did our best to provide advice to them, and help them ensure they abided by the law and respected the spirit of Anzac Day.
“However, this is just a small example of the mayhem and confusion that is Queensland’s retail trading hours framework.
“The NRA currently has a case before the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission which seeks to harmonise trading hours in the south east corner.
“However, we now believe it is time for the State Government to look at this issue from a wider perspective, because the laws are confusing for everyone from the smallest operators right through to multinational chain stores that want to set up shop here.
“Businesses simply want to get on with the job of creating employment and prosperity in the state, but they are constantly at risk of breaking the law when the rules are too confusing.
“The NRA is ready to work with the State Government and all stakeholders to create a simple and effective trading hours regime that benefits business owners, employees and shoppers.”
The NRA is Australia’s largest and most diverse retail industry organisation, and has been representing the interests of the retail, fast food and broader service sector for almost 100 years.
Media contact: SAS Media and Communications 07 3171 2960 or 0467 792 013