Proposed liquor restrictions putting employment at risk

AS AUSTRALIA's largest retail peak body industry, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) isconcerned the proposed liquor restrictions by the Western Australia State Government will not only affect the economy it will stifle employment.

Russell Zimmerman, Executive Director of the ARA, said these proposed restrictions will only reduce consumer choice and convenience, affecting the retailer's bottom line and in turn, employment.

“As Australia’s largest retail association, representing over 7,500 retail members, who employ more than 1.2 million people, the ARA’s primary concern is the affect these restrictions will have on employment,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Restricting liquor stores to under 400 sqm and restricting developments based on the proximity of other stores will not only put retailers in danger, it will significantly cost jobs.”

The ARA understand the Government’s sentiment to reduce the harm caused by excessive alcohol consumption, but believe these proposed restrictions on liquor outlets will do more harm than good.

“Research states that nationally, total alcohol consumption per capita has declined during the same period that liquor licenses have been increasing,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Therefore, it would be a mistake to push through these reforms without substantial evidence as these proposed restrictions will significantly affect the Western Australian economy.”

The ARA are supportive of educational based measures to reduce excessive alcohol consumption but believe the Government need to better engage with the industry to reduce harm.

“The Government needs to support business growth and work with local retailers to find a steady transition in promoting a healthy lifestyle without harming Australian retailers,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“With retail trade in Western Australia declining over 2017, due to their economic struggles, the State Government should be helping to build, not block business development and retail employment.”

 

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is Australia’s largest retail association, representing the country’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. As Australia’s leading retail peak body industry, the ARA is a strong pro-active advocate for Australian retail and works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,500 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

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