Retailers in NSW will be allowed to trade on Sundays and most public holidays under new legislation to be introduced in NSW.
While most retailers have been able to obtain case-by-case exemptions, NSW Regulatory Reform Minister Joe Tripodi says the processes is confusing and expensive. Submissions received from small businesses revealed the cost of applying for a single exemption can be as high as $10,000.
The legislation will establish a single, streamlined process. Any business wishing to trade on one or more of these prohibited days can apply to the Director General of Industrial Relations for an exemption through a single streamlined process. All existing exemptions will remain valid.
Retail groups have welcomed the decision. The bill was introduced yesterday and a spokesperson for Tripodi is hopeful the new regulations will be in place by 1 July.
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