O'Brien lifts small shop staff cap

Small retailers will be able to have up to 18 people working at the same time – 5 more than previously allowed – under changes to retail trading laws announced by the state government.

Commerce and Small Business Minister Simon O’Brien said the changes to staff caps would be a welcome boost for both business and consumers.

“Small retail shops can open 24 hours a day, every day of the year if they choose and giving them the option to employ up to 18 staff provides an opportunity for more stores to trade 24/7 or to expand operations when they are open,” Mr O’Brien said.

“This will create greater choice and flexibility for consumers as well as boosting employment among small to medium-sized businesses in the retail sector; in turn stimulating the local economy.”

Mr O’Brien said the Department of Commerce expects the changes will result in a jump in the number of new applications for small retail shop certificates; increasing the amount of shops which are allowed to open any time, any day of the year.