The election of a Labor Government presents challenges on a number of policy fronts which are vital to the retail sector. Within weeks of coming into office the new government announced Inquiries and other policy initiatives that will impact considerably on retailers.
The most significant is workplace reform which the government has indicated will be managed in various stages. The first being a transition Bill which will cease the AWA regime and allow workplaces to begin a collective bargaining arrangement. This Bill will be a temporary measure while the development of the more comprehensive reform package and legislation is undertaken. The ARA is meeting with Minister Gillard and Minister Emerson on these and other matters.
The environment is also looming as an interesting policy platform for the ARA to pay greater attention to. Minister Garrett has foreshadowed either a ban or a tax on plastic bag use. While the clear majority of retailers and indeed the community would agree that plastic bags floating in water and blowing across the countryside and streets is unwelcome the ARA questions whether this is a plastic bag issue or litter management. The ARA has been leading the debate on this issue and indeed the sector has reduced the use of plastic bags, however the litter management issues remain. The ARA stands ready to support any government initiative however we want the issue to be fully debated as it is not as simple as a ban or a tax as the Productivity Commission determined.
Assistant Treasurer Bowen has initiated an ACCC Inquiry into grocery pricing to assess whether Australian consumers are disadvantaged. The ARA is confident the current system is fair and effective but will welcome any improvements put forward. The ARA will be submitting to the Inquiry to ensure retailers have a strong voice. The Productivity Commission continues its Inquiry into retail leasing and the ARA will again be providing a further submission before appearing before the commission. This Inquiry tackles one of the most important issues retailers are facing and will provide hope to those who are currently struggling with rents and rent negotiations. The ARA will continue to fight for retailers on this matter until we have a balance that is fair. There remain two outstanding Inquiries into franchising with particular interest to retailers in South Australia and Western Australia. The ARA is making submissions to both Inquiries to ensure retailer interests are considered before recommendations are made.
What these moves in government mean is that your ARA is working hard to protect your interests. The new national structure and new management will enable the ARA a stronger voice for members and the broader sector. Now, more than ever, the ARA needs your support and we look forward to providing the leadership the sector needs during this period of uncertainty.
