Fair Work Commission approval paves way for new era of unity and leadership in retail
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) have welcomed the Fair Work Commission's (FWC) approval of their amalgamation - the final step in establishment of the Australian Retail Council (ARC), which will officially launch February 1, 2026.
ARC CEO Designate Chris Rodwell said today's FWC decision marks a new era for Australia's $444 billion retail sector.
"This is a historic moment for Australian retail," Mr Rodwell said. "Through the Australian Retail Council, we will combine the collective strength, experience and advocacy of two respected industry bodies into a unified voice - one that represents every retailer, from family-owned independents to iconic brands.
"Our vision is clear - we want every Australian to respect and celebrate the sustaining contribution of retail to communities across our nation. And we want governments across the nation to back the retailers that back Australia," said Mr Rodwell.
Retail is Australia's largest private-sector employer, supporting one in ten working Australians. In regional and remote Australia, the jobs the retail sector provide are especially critical.
Beyond the economic impact, retail plays a vital societal role - serving every community, helping connect Australians to the products, services and experiences that shape their daily lives. Retail is also often at the frontline in supporting communities through crisis, as well as backing local sporting teams and community groups.
Around 9 in 10 (88%) Australians visit a retailer weekly or more often, whether in a remote town or in the heart of a capital city's CBD. Around 2 in every 3 (64%) Australians either work in retail or have a close friend or family member that do.
Mr Rodwell said retailers in Australia face some big challenges.
"We look forward to working closely with government and community partners to build the conditions for a thriving retail sector. But we must also confront the growing challenge posed by ultra-cheap overseas platforms that aren't playing by the same rules and are rapidly becoming one of the sector's biggest threats," he said. "We need to hold them to account, while also reducing the huge compliance burden faced by local retailers, especially smaller, independent businesses."
The formation of ARC follows a decisive 'yes' vote from members of both organisations, with 93 per cent voting in favour of amalgamation.
Mr Rodwell said the ARC will champion policy reform, innovation and sustainability.
"The member vote sent a clear message: retailers want a unified, future-focused organisation that can deliver outcomes on issues that matter - supporting our workforce, easing cost and compliance pressures, tackling retail crime, navigating AI and technology adoption and ultimately driving economic growth," he said.
"We are ready to lead with the strong, united representation the Australian retail industry deserves."
