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Media releases
For media enquiries and interview opportunities, contact the ARC media team on media@retail.org.au or 0434 381 670
All ARC media releases
Robust October retail spending a solid platform for peak season trading
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) said today’s ABS data showing a 5.7% annual rise in retail spending for the month of October demonstrates continued
Early Christmas shoppers lift retailers’ hopes for a solid finish to 2025
Australians are getting a head start on Christmas shopping this year, with nearly one-in-three shoppers (29%) saying they are buying gifts earlier than in 2024, while only 8% are leaving
WA Retail Barring Orders a major step forward in protecting retail workers and communities
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) welcome the WA Government’s introduction of the Retail Barring Orders Bill 2025 (RBOs) — a significant milestone in efforts to
Australian Retail Council to launch 1 February 2026
Fair Work Commission approval paves way for new era of unity and leadership in retail The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) have welcomed the Fair Work
Passing of WPO legislation heralds new era of retail safety in South Australia
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) have welcomed the passing of Workplace Protection Order (WPO) legislation in the South Australian Parliament — a landmark moment for retail
Retailers welcome bipartisan focus to tackle retail crime in Victoria
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) welcome the strengthened, bipartisan commitment to address Victoria’s retail crime crisis– with both the Government and Opposition signalling support
Retailers welcome Victorian Government commitment to Workplace Protection Orders and worker assault legislation, but warn there’s no time to waste
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) welcome the Victorian Government’s commitment to Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs) and long-awaited new laws to strengthen penalties for assaults, abuse
Retailers commend Queensland Government’s forward-thinking commitment to small business safety
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) welcome the Queensland Government’s continued commitment to retail and small business safety through Round 2 of the $40 million Secure
Record Black Friday weekend bonanza tipped to hit $6.8 billion as shoppers chase value
Australians are poised to spend a record $6.8 billion over the Black Friday–Cyber Monday weekend, according to the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) in partnership with Roy Morgan — a 4%
Retail spending steady ahead of critical Christmas trading period
Today’s Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data showing a 4.3% rise in retail spending over the past year reflects a solid foundation for retailers as they enter the vital pre-Christmas trading season
State in crisis: Victorians demand action on retail crime
Victorians are calling for action on retail crime with new research revealing 79% are concerned about the state’s rising crime levels. With retail crime at crisis levels, the research supports
South Australia’s landmark workplace protection laws a game-changer for retail worker safety
Retailers have applauded plans to introduce a new bill into South Australian Parliament to establish Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs), giving police and courts stronger powers to keep repeat offenders out
ARC submissions
Given the important role that the retail sector plays in driving economic growth, we seek government policies that:
- Support the economic impact generated by the retail sector;
- Restore business confidence, particularly for small and medium businesses;
- Increase consumer confidence and disposable income;
- Apply downward pressure on business costs; and
- Reduce complexity by driving national alignment on state matters