• McGowan Government approves extra retail trading hours this Christmas
• Extended trading, same as 2016-17, to begin December 5 until New Year’s Day 2018
• Extra trading also approved for Australia Day 2018 public holiday

The McGowan Government has approved extended retail trading hours giving Perth shoppers an extra 49 hours to buy gifts and food over the Christmas period.

Starting on Tuesday, December 5, general retail shops in the Perth metropolitan area will be allowed to open from 7am to 9pm on weekdays (normally 8am to 9pm), 7am to 6pm on Saturdays (normally 8am to 5pm) and 8am to 6pm on Sunday and public holidays (normally 11am to 5pm). The exception is Christmas Day when larger retail shops will be closed.

The extended trading hours will conclude on New Year’s Day.

Commerce and Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston has also approved extended trading hours for Australia Day, 8am to 6pm, adding an extra four hours for consumers to shop.

The extended hours for the Christmas period and Australia Day are the same as 2016-17.

Under the Retail Trading Hours Act, the Minister has the power to extend trading for a 28 day period prior to New Year’s Day and for public holidays outside this period, except for Christmas Day, Good Friday and ANZAC Day when general retail shops must close.

Comments attributed to Commerce and Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston:

“The McGowan Government wants consumers and major Perth retailers to take full advantage of Christmas and post-Christmas shopping this year.

“We support local businesses and workers, which is why some of the restrictions will allow staff to take time off and enjoy the Christmas festivities.

“I urge all Western Australians to support our community and protect local jobs by buying your Christmas presents from local retailers who need your business.”

Minister's Office:  6552 6700