The Fair Work Commission has just approved the amalgamation of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA).
With that, both entities will merge together as one, becoming the Australian Retail Council (ARC) from February 1 next year.
ARC CEO-designate Chris Rodwell said the FWC decision marks a new era for Australia’s $444 billion retail sector.
“Through the Australian Retail Council, we will combine the collective strength, experience and advocacy of two respected industry bodies into a unified voice — one that represents every retailer, from family-owned independents to iconic brands,” Rodwell said.
“Our vision is clear – we want every Australian to respect and celebrate the sustaining contribution of retail to communities across our nation. And we want governments across the nation to back the retailers that back Australia.”
Retail is Australia’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in ten working Australians. In regional and remote Australia, the jobs provided by the retail sector are especially critical.
Fashion contributes a decent chunk to the overall retail space in Australia, driving $28 billion across the economy annually.
Around 9 in 10 Australians (88 per cent) visit a retailer weekly or more often, whether in rural or CBD locations. Around 2 in every 3 Australians (64 per cent) either work in retail or have a close friend or family member who does.
Rodwell said the industry is robust, but has been struck with challenges in recent years. He pointed to ultra-cheap overseas platforms like Temu and Shein that”aren’t playing by the same rules” and have become one of the sector’s biggest threats.
“We need to hold them to account, while also reducing the huge compliance burden faced by local retailers, especially smaller, independent businesses,” Rodwell said.
The formation of ARC also follows a decisive ‘yes’ vote from members of both organisations, with 93 per cent voting in favour of amalgamation.
Rodwell said the ARC’s key current focuses include policy reform, innovation and sustainability. This includes easing cost and compliance pressures, tackling retail crime, navigating AI and technology adoption, all while ultimately driving economic growth.
“We are ready to lead with the strong, united representation the Australian retail industry deserves.”