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The National Retail Association (NRA) has met with Brisbane City Council to tackle trading hours.

The NRA believes its plans for south east Queensland could add $111 million to the state's economy and create around 1000 new jobs.

It addressed its application in front of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission in a bid to unify the 10 separate trading hours time zones between Noosa and Coolangatta and west to Ipswich.

NRA CEO Trevor Evans said that the proposed move will create flexibility for retailers and customers alike.

“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.

“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.”

Evans said it will also give business owners more control over their operations.

“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.

“This is a win-win for business owners, customers, local jobs and the economy.”

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