Wednesday 23 June 2021
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has recognised the ongoing payroll tax relief, support for small business and vouchers for the continued revitalisation of the Adelaide CBD as welcome measures for retailers in this week's South Australian Budget.
"The South Australian Budget continues the path to economic recovery and provides important ongoing support for businesses who continue to face Covid challenges," ARA CEO Paul Zahra said.
"While the Adelaide CBD is in a much better position than the Melbourne and Sydney CBDs, businesses are still hurting from the lack of tourists and international students - as well as a drop off in office workers with more people choosing to work flexibly from home.
"Tourism, hospitality, events and retail all work hand in hand and ongoing funding for the activation of the Adelaide precinct through events and activities will entice more people into the city and will deliver flow on benefits for retailers. An additional $4 million for the Great State Voucher scheme will also provide ongoing support for accommodation providers in the CBD.
"The 12-month extension of the payroll tax exemption for eligible new trainees and apprentices helps encourage small business growth. Additional funds have also been allocated for JobTrainer, which supports skills for in demand roles and provides more training pathways to employment.
"While the South Australian Budget addresses important levers for the ongoing Covid recovery, existing retail trading hour restrictions remain a huge impediment to economic growth.
"We again call on South Australian MPs to support the bill to enable a referendum for more flexible trading. There is strong public support for this with 60% of South Australians surveyed by Roy Morgan in favour of letting stores open earlier on weekends and later during the week to suit their needs.
"South Australians should be given the opportunity to have their say, rather than politicians making the assumptions for them. Refusing to give South Australians that right removes their voice."
