Wednesday 30 June 2021
Australia's largest retail body, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), has welcomed the expansion of Service NSW QR codes to apply across all retail businesses across the state but highlighted the need for government authorities to 'have the back' of retail staff on compliance and enforcement.
ARA CEO Paul Zahra said retailers have been supportive of Covid safety measures throughout the pandemic and have successfully navigated the uptake of QR codes in other jurisdictions.
"QR codes are recognised as a valuable means of protecting retailers and their customers in the unfortunate instance of Covid outbreaks and many retailers have embraced these proactively, ahead of today's mandate," Mr Zahra said.
"The key ongoing challenge for retailers in this area is around enforcement, which is a matter for the appropriate authorities and not something that can be taken on by retail staff themselves. A consistent and practical approach to enforcement across NSW, and around the country, is critical to safety and successful adoption.
"We are still all in this together - and never more so with multi-jurisdiction lockdowns in place. Successful QR code compliance within a retail setting is a three-way responsibility. Government must enforce, businesses must play their part in encouraging use and customer compliance is paramount.
"Unfortunately, customer aggression has been a big issue for retail staff throughout the pandemic and this issue is heightened whenever new measures are introduced. Public awareness and education around new measures is critical to minimise confusion or instances of customer abuse.
"We are pleased to have had the opportunity to input into the NSW Government strategy and that the Government has adopted many of the ARA's recommendations around QR code adoption."
