The National Retail Association (NRA) has slammed the Northern Territory Government for its decision to introduce half-day public holidays during the Christmas period.
According to the NRA, the proposal would instate the holidays on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve and would force retailers to fork out on penalty rates to staff between 7pm and midnight.
NRA CEO Dominique Lamb believes the proposal has been drawn up without seeking advice from businesses and the industry.
“There has been no consultation between the Northern Territory Government and the retail industry on the possible introduction of half-day public holidays over Christmas and New Year.
“The industry is about to enter one of its busiest trading periods for the year and the NRA is greatly concerned about the impact that such measures will have on small retailers.”
Lamb also said that the decision will force some retailers out of business during the half-day holidays.
“There will be some retailers who are unable to afford more penalty rates during the Christmas and New Year period and as a result will shut their doors for trade.
“If retailers close their doors, employees miss out on work and consumers are left with fewer options when doing Christmas and New Year shopping.
“We ask that the Government consult with the retail industry and consider the potential consequences of further public holidays during Christmas and New Year before they go ahead with this scheme.”