A Queensland State Government committee says it will retain the existing restrictions on Sunday trading arrangements for new and used car, motorcycle, and caravan dealerships.
The Education, Employment and Training Committee announced its decision following the Review of Trading (Allowable Hours) Act 1990 which has been welcomed by the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland).
MTA Queensland opposed seven-day trading on behalf of members of the Queensland automotive industry throughout the review process, providing evidence and testimonials to the inquiry in 2021.
The industry body says the decision is a fantastic outcome for dealers, who will be able to continue to operate as per current conditions in the face of changing market conditions and ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are extremely happy to see the Committee take on board our concerns and extend the current trading arrangements for businesses in our industry, who are in near unanimous agreement against Sunday trading,” MTA Queensland chief executive Rod Camm.
“Since the last review in 2019, the automotive industry has continued to be stretched by external factors putting pressure on the profitability of businesses, from the changing nature of contactless car sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic, to stock shortages.
“Introducing Sunday trading would have only served to exponentially increase the operating costs and pressures imposed on dealers, while driving skilled workers away from the industry to sectors with better work/life balance.
“This would have been extremely detrimental, particularly at a time where we are experiencing a drastic shortage of staff, made worse by COVID-19 isolation and quarantine rules.
“MTA Queensland is proud of this outcome, and we will continue to give voice to our members and represent their interests to influence government into the future,” Camm says.
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