New laws allowing retailers across Perth to open on weeknights until 9pm will come into effect from November 1.
New laws allowing retailers across Perth to open on weeknights until 9pm will come into effect from November 1.
Earlier this month legislation passed through state parliament giving the green light for late night trading.
The new 'special trading precincts' of Midland and Armadale will also be open for business on Sundays from November 1.
Premier Colin Barnett said the changes reflected the State Government's plan for moderate, incremental reform of Perth's trading hour arrangements.
Commerce Minister Bill Marmion said it was an exciting time for retailers and shoppers.
"I think these reforms will bring more vibrancy to the Perth metropolitan area and make our city an even better place to live," said Mr Marmion.
Opposition Leader Eric Ripper welcomed the news.
"Extended weeknight trading to 9pm across the Perth metropolitan areas was part of an inprinciple
agreement reached between Labor and the Premier in June this year," he said.
Mr Ripper said he hoped the Barnett Government would appoint the Small Business Commissioner and implement the shopping centre lease registers before Parliament rises for the year.
"With the changes to retail trading across our city, it is important small businesses were protected from any downsides to the new reforms," Mr Ripper said.
"The Small Business Commissioner will make sure small businesses right across the State continue to grow and prosper into the future."
Chief executive of the WA Chamber of Commerce and Industry James Pearson said the decision is a step in the right direction, but doesn't go far enough.
"Allowing all stores across Perth to open until 9 o'clock, and introducing Sunday trading to a few areas like Midland and Armadale, is a sign that WA's retail trading hours are slowly being brought up to date," he said.
But the CCI wants all sides of politics to bring to an end what it describes as years of uncertainty by allowing all shops across Perth to be allowed to open on Sundays as well.
Retail Traders' Association director Wayne Spencer said the decision will help Perth's struggling retail sector in the lead-up to Christmas.
Mr Spencer said the date will give shop owners more opportunities to meet the needs of their customers, and also help them to build momentum before the busy pre-Christmas trading period starts.
However he said the retail trading laws are still less than perfect.
"The Retail Traders' Association of Western Australia is calling on the State Government to take the final step in updating Perth's archaic trading laws and allow Sunday shopping across the city," said Mr Spencer.
See joint statement from Premier and Commerce Minister
Shoppers would have greater flexibility and choice from November 1, 2010, when new laws come into effect, allowing late night trading right across the Perth metropolitan area.
Premier Colin Barnett said in just one month's time, general retail shops would have the choice to stay open until 9pm on weeknights.
"This Government is very aware of the lifestyles of West Australians, including working parents, who often find it difficult to shop within the current restricted trading hours," Mr Barnett said.
"These extended trading hours will be welcomed by busy families trying to find a balance between their working lives and needs at home."
The Premier said the changes reflected the State Government's plan for moderate, incremental reform of Perth's trading hour arrangements.
"We have always been focused on creating a retail trading environment that allows choice, flexibility and competition," he said.
"I have already received positive feedback from retailers and consumers, excited about the opportunities these changes will bring."
Commerce Minister Bill Marmion said there was more good news for shoppers and retailers in Midland and Armadale.
"From November 1, the new 'special trading precincts' of Midland and Armadale will also be open for business, which will include Sunday trading," Mr Marmion said.
"This follows the success of the Joondalup special trading precinct which opened earlier this month.
"This is an exciting time for retailers and shoppers. I think these reforms will bring more vibrancy to the Perth metropolitan area and make our city an even better place to live."
