Libs debate Sunday trading

by Sarah Byrne 10 March 2010

Shopkeepers say they welcome moves to deregulate trading hours, as the Liberal Party prepares to make it a key policy issue at the next state election. 

Premier Colin Barnett said he intends to extend the special trading precinct to allow full deregulation of trading hours, as it will be convenient for consumers and will bring Perth up to date with other states.

The Special Trading Precinct Act 2010 outlines that specific areas have the option of staying open until 8pm weeknights and open on Sundays, at present Joondalup, Fremantle, Armadale and Midland have extended trading hours.

Terry Darby-Smith Manager of Joondalup Business Association said there is a need for extended trading hours in the City of Joondalup and he supports growth of business in the local area.

The extended trading hours in the City of Joondalup only applies to the inner Joondalup shopping area, other shopping areas in the district such as Westfield Whitford City Shopping Centre are not included in the special trading precinct.

“This is unfair business practice,” said Mr Darby-Smith.

Fran Wheatley a shop owner in Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre said shop owners should have the right to choose their trading hours and extended trading hours are no benefit to small businesses.

“Everybody should have the option to be open,” said Mrs Wheatley.

“Saturdays used to be manic and now they’re just average, it costs more to stay open and we incur charges if we don’t open on Sundays,” she said.

Mr Darby-Smith said the impact of possible full deregulation on small business in the local area is a concern.

“We do not support the full deregulation of trading hours, as it’s hard on small businesses due to staffing,” said Mr Darby-Smith.

“If businesses open seven days, seven day wage rates are required,” he said.

Mr Barnett said he supports Sunday trading and will allow time for retailers to adjust to extended trading hours before implementing full deregulation.

"I support Sunday trading but I'm also very conscious that we'll do it in managed steps so it’s fair to everyone," Mr Barnett told the West Australian.

Mr Darby-Smith said full deregulation of extended trading hours will happen, but fears the costs incurred specifically within shopping centres will force small businesses to close.

“It is costing them to stay open, we fear small businesses will close,” said Mr Darby-Smith.

Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre and Westfield Whitford City Shopping Centre declined  to comment.