Retail policy reforms to grow Victorian jobs
18-January-2012
Member for Hastings, Neale Burgess has welcomed retail policy changes announced by Planning Minister Matthew Guy, which will spur major jobs growth and flexibility in Victoria’s retail industry, including throughout the Hastings, Somerville and Langwarrin areas.
Mr Guy was joined by the Bulky Goods Retailers Association and a number of leading retailers to announce the reforms under Amendment VC88.
“Thousands of jobs will be created under these reforms, allowing the dynamic retail industry to expand to meet changing consumer needs,” Mr Guy said.
“These sensible changes to the planning scheme will allow expansion of new and existing retail businesses in Victoria.
“These reforms give certainty to the retail industry about where stores may be developed,” Mr Guy said.
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.
Mr Burgess welcomed the reforms.
“With current global uncertainty, it is important that the state government makes the common sense changes that will generate jobs growth and stimulate our local economy.” Mr Burgess said.
Mr Burgess added: “These changes will translate into real jobs in the Hastings, Somerville and Langwarrin areas and more jobs will mean more money being spent in our local businesses. More money being spent in our local shops will itself generate more jobs.”
The former Labor Government reviewed retail policy in 2007, but failed to resolve the issue, leaving the industry in the dark and without certainty.
The changes will allow councils to assess permit applications for bulky goods retail on their merits.
“The Coalition Government is creating thousands of jobs throughout Victoria with these common sense reforms” Mr Guy said.
The retail reforms continue the Coalition Government’s commitment to growing Victorian employment and the economic prosperity of the state.
Media: Neale Burgess 5977 5600