The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) have extended their congratulations to members of the re-elected Labor Government and expressed their intention to work closely with Federal Cabinet to support economic growth.
ARA CEO Chris Rodwell said the sector is seeking stronger collaboration with key figures in government, including Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Assistant Minister for Competition Andrew Leigh, to address regulatory and cost pressures faced by retailers.
Rodwell emphasised the need for urgent productivity reform, warning that ongoing inefficiencies pose a risk to the country’s living standards and economic performance.
“Retail is the single largest private sector employer in the country, providing jobs to more than 1.4 million Australians – making real inroads in these areas matters,” said Rodwell.
“This is why the government can expect our fullest engagement on these priority issues.”
He also raised concerns about global trade tensions, particularly the ongoing impact of US tariff policy changes, which he said could disrupt supply chains and increase prices for Australian retailers.
While acknowledging the limited influence Australia has over international trade decisions, Rodwell said domestic reforms, such as reducing red tape and simplifying regulatory frameworks, could help mitigate local impacts.
The ARA and NRA also welcomed the appointments of Amanda Rishworth as Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations and Anne Aly as Minister for Small Business.
The associations said they look forward to working with both ministers on workforce-related issues, small business resilience, and simplifying industrial relations.
“Ultimately, the big economic test for this second term is to deliver overdue productivity reform. It is an agenda that will define our future living standards. We can do this through the National Competition Policy reform and the strategic review of Australia’s R&D,” said Rodwell.
“However, the agenda needs to go further, encompassing much overdue tax reform. The ARA and NRA stand ready to work with the Government, Opposition, crossbenches, business and community groups to effect genuine change.”