Small businesses are the heart and backbone of the Territory, making up 96 per cent of all Territory businesses. They employ tens of thousands of Territorians and are the engine that drives growth and community prosperity.
As we head into the festive season, it is more important than ever to support Territory businesses and buy local. This is especially true for retailers in the greater Darwin region and the Top End who have been impacted by Tropical Cyclone Fina.
Minister for Trade Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, along with Aithne Archibald, General Manager of the Darwin City Retailers Association, today visited CBD retailers Tommy Bahama, Hoskings, Albertini, and Lulu & Daw.
Minister Cahill said "it was great to have the opportunity to speak with local business owners and their staff about how they are faring after Cyclone Fina, as well as how they are preparing for the busy Christmas period."
"There is no doubt the weekend's event impacted our local retailers but everyone I spoke with was pragmatic, and optimistic that the upcoming festive season would provide an opportunity to rebound, which is why it is so important that Territorians buy local."
Ms Archibald said, "With only twenty-nine days until Christmas, in deciding to shop locally from our fantastic Territory retailers, Territorians can avoid the stress of the expectation vs reality experience as well as worrying if a gift ordered online will arrive in their letterbox in time for Christmas."
"The Darwin community can be really proud of the range of local businesses we have. With over 50 retail members in the CBD who understand the local market, whether it's toys, books, jewellery or a gift voucher, our local businesses have you covered."
Minister Cahill said, "When you buy local, you're buying a piece of Darwin and supporting your neighbours, friends and colleagues. So go to a store with a door where you can try it on, read it, test it out and get advice from people who know and love their products."
Buying local keeps money in the community, supports Territory jobs and strengthens our economy.
