The Australian Retailers Association is urging the Victorian Government to shift the Victorian AFL Grand Final public holiday from Friday to Monday.
With the Victorian retail industry contributing $81.5 billion to the national economy, it says the move will improve productivity and stimulate local businesses.
ARA executive director Russell Zimmerman said the Friday before the AFL Grand Final public holiday places an unnecessary burden on retailers.
“Victorian retailers will really feel the pinch this Friday before the AFL Grand Final, as Fridays are one of the busiest trading days of the week,” he said.
“Retailers are constantly battling low sales growth coupled with increased operating costs, so imposing the public holiday on Friday significantly impacts retailers in Victoria.”
With the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) predicting a loss of $1 billion to industry, the ARA believe the Victorian economy will certainly suffer this Friday.
“The additional public holiday on Friday 28 September will see many retailers choosing to close their doors rather than pay incredibly high penalty rates of up to 150%,” Zimmerman said.
“With this public holiday only enforced in Victoria, the lack of trade, foot-traffic and productivity significantly affects the state’s economy.”
The AFL Grand Final public holiday was first introduced in 2015.
Zimmerman claimed it has since cost Victorian retailers a valuable day of business, as Victorian consumers usually attend the Grand Final Parade.
“We continually receive feedback from members who do not support this public holiday because they end up paying the price,” Zimmerman said.
“Retailers who choose to open their doors will incur additional labor costs without seeing a boost in trade.”