Supermarkets shelves can be stocked around the clock

The Queensland Government has taken steps to ensure supermarket shelves remain stocked.

Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Steven Miles said there was no need for panic buying following yesterday’s announcement of a lockdown in parts of Queensland. 

“The Queensland Government is taking measures to address planning conditions that restrict operating hours of loading docks and distribution centres supplying supermarkets,” Mr Miles said.

“This will ensure drivers and retailers can work around the clock to deliver essentials to Queenslanders.

“We are not running out of products, but need to get products to supermarket shelves as quickly as possible.

“I want to thank our retailers and delivery drivers ensuring we can all get our hands on essentials.

“I also want to urge Queenslanders not to panic buy. 

“We’ve done this before, we have been through lockdowns and restrictions and together we can get through this again.” 

Mr Miles said the measures were temporary to respond to consumer demand. 

“This provides temporary relief from approval conditions for declared businesses, such as supermarkets and chemists, to restock 24 hours per day, seven days a week,” he said. 

“This does not impact retail trading hours.

“Our government is responsive and we’ve listened to industry’s concerns.”

ENDS

Media contact: Amy Hunter - 0423 651 484