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Reforms to spur on retail industry

Retail policy changes announced by the Coalition government will spur on major jobs growth and provide more flexibility in Victoria’s retail industry and local member, Tim Bull, said these reforms can only be good news for retailer in East Gippsland.

It is important that the local retail community has every opportunity to grow and develop any potential business or employment opportunities.

“These retail zone reforms make common sense and will provide more flexibility to the retail industry, potentially creating hundreds of jobs across Victoria.

“The associated benefits generated by local retailers can only flow through to the rest of the community.

“The reforms are further evidence of the Coalition government’s continued commitment to growing employment and providing economic prosperity throughout regional Victoria,” Mr Bull said.

Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy said “these reforms give certainty to the retail industry about where stores may be developed.”

“The changes were welcomed by leading retailers including Baby Bunting, Officeworks, Beacon Lighting, Petstock and Associated Retailers Limited.

“These retailers are planning to open more than 50 stores in Victoria in the coming years as a result of these reforms,” said Minister Guy.

Mr Bull said, the former Labor Government reviewed retail policy in 2007, but failed to resolve the issue, leaving the industry in the dark and without certainty. 

“These changes will allow councils to assess permit applications for bulky goods retail on their individual merits.”