Australia's largest retail peak body, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), has applauded the NSW State Government's new voucher scheme which targets back to school purchases.
ARA CEO Paul Zahra said spending vouchers will help offset cost-of-living pressures and are a practical and proven method of bolstering the retail economy.
"We warmly welcome this initiative, as an extension of the highly successful voucher programs previously introduced by the NSW Government. The ARA held ongoing discussions with the government through the pandemic about the power of government vouchers – we are grateful to have a government that listens to business feedback and responds.
"We know from retailers that vouchers work; they bring people into the retail environments and the centres in particular. This has a positive flow-on effect for retail, hospitality and for arts and recreation outlets -everyone's a winner.
"Back to School is a very important time in the retail calendar, and this year it falls during a time when inflationary pressures are at their potential peak. No doubt many NSW residents will appreciate the thoughtful approach as they consider their budgets with cost-of-living pressures continuing to bite.
"This is a powerful way to not only support budget-conscious NSW families but to also support small business and keep the retail and business economy moving in these challenging times," said Mr Zahra.
