The National Retail Association (NRA) has backed the Queensland's Government's move to review retail trading hours across the state.
It follows a proposal to make Easter Sunday a public holiday in Queensland.
NRA CEO Dominique Lamb has welcomed the review, but has advised the Government to carefully consider the impact of reforms on independent retailers.
“The NRA is open to the idea of allowing retailers across Queensland having the choice to open their doors on Easter Sunday, however this must be balanced by reform to retail trading hours, to ensure small businesses are not adversely impacted.
“Retail trading laws in Queensland need to be simplified and clarified, and this should be done in conjunction with any other changes during a busy part of the retail year such as Easter.
“Retailers are often unable to cater to their customers, simply because the current legal framework hasn’t caught up with changing customer needs.”
Lamb has labelled current trading legislation in the state 'archaic'.
“Under current retail trading law in Queensland, some large businesses are already allowed to trade on Easter Sunday, while others are not.
“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.
“The NRA looks forward to consulting with the Government and the Minister on this matter, with the hope of reforming retail trade in Queensland, and giving retailers greater flexibility to better service their customers.”