Retailers urged to observe Anzac Day trading hours

Queensland traders opening illegally on Anzac Day risk prosecution, Employment and Industrial Relations Minister John Mickel warned today.

Mr Mickel said trading laws had been reformed and liberalised in recent years and there was no need to intrude on days set aside for religious worship or solemn remembrance.

He commended retailers for observing trading restrictions during the recent Easter long weekend.

“Only exempt shops, such as newsagents, chemists, cafes, service stations, bakeries and small food and grocery shops can open on Good Friday and Anzac Day,’’ he said.

“Other small shops can open after 1pm on Anzac Day but the large retailers must close on both days.

“These are important days in the calendar of Queenslanders and have been made public holidays for a reason. That reason is not to make money at the checkout.

“Exempt shops are traditionally allowed to open and that will not change on Anzac Day.

“But other business will not be allowed to flaunt opening hour rules and trade anywhere in the state, city or country, tourist destination or not.

“Workers need time with their families to pay their respects to the Australians who sacrificed so much for this country's freedom.

“Shops are now open a lot more than they were a decade or so ago but we should keep some days at least partly free for family commitments.”

Anyone wanting further information on trading hours over the Anzac Day period should contact Wageline on 1300 369 945 or visit the website at http://www.wageline.qld.gov.au/

Media contact: Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

April 21, 2008