Premier Colin Barnett says the extension of weekday retail trading hours to 9pm reflects the government's determination to provide incremental reform to Perth's shopping hours.
Premier Colin Barnett says the extension of weekday retail trading hours to 9pm reflects the government's determination to provide incremental reform to Perth's shopping hours.
From today, shops can open until 9pm on weeknights.
Large supermarkets, like Coles and Woolworth, and large retail outlets, like Myer, Big W and Kmart are expected to stay open.
Smaller retailers are expected to consider whether to open on a case-by-case basis.
"Creating a retail trading environment that allows choice, flexibility and improved competition has always been the focus of this Government," said Mr Barnett.
"Business will now have greater freedom to respond to particular needs of their customers and won't be locked into outdated shopping hours.
"It is entirely their option to open during the extended hours," he said.
New special trading precincts in Armadale and Midland will also begin today, allowing them to trade on Sunday from November 7.
See statement from Premier and Commerce Minister below:
Perth shoppers and retailers will be able to enjoy extended trading hours to 9pm on weeknights under new laws that come into effect from today.
Premier Colin Barnett and Commerce Minister Bill Marmion today marked the start of Western Australia's new retail trading hours regime, which will give general retail shops, including major grocery stores, the option to open to 9pm weeknights.
The Premier said the changes reflected the State Government's determination to provide incremental reform to Perth's shopping hours.
"Creating a retail trading environment that allows choice, flexibility and improved competition has always been the focus of this Government," he said.
"The extension of weeknight trading will apply across the whole metropolitan area.
"Business will now have greater freedom to respond to particular needs of their customers and won't be locked into outdated shopping hours. It is entirely their option to open during the extended hours."
Commerce Minister Bill Marmion said new special trading precincts of Armadale and Midland would begin today, allowing Sunday trading from November 7.
"The extension of weeknight trading to 9pm and the creation of special trading precincts in Armadale and Midland, in addition to the special precincts in Perth, Fremantle and Joondalup, represents a significant achievement," Mr Marmion said.
"At the forefront of the Government's mind has been the need to keep pace with the changes in urban lifestyles and working hours in the metropolitan area.
"I encourage retailers and the community to embrace this great opportunity."
Retail tenants with any questions about their leasing arrangements and the new trading hours can contact a specialist business adviser at the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) for free, confidential advice and guidance on 131 BIZ (131249). More information is available at
