- Extended shopping hours approved for the City of Albany
- General retail shops will be allowed to open on Sundays and most public holidays
- Changes to take effect from February 2025
Albany consumers will enjoy extra hours of shopping on a permanent basis, after a proposal from the local government authority was given the greenlight by the Cook Government.
In response to an application by the City of Albany, Commerce Minister Sue Ellery informed the Council that she approved extended retail trading hours in Albany.
The approval follows a unanimous decision by councillors to back extended trading after a survey revealed widespread local community support.
From 1 February 2025, general retail shops in Albany will be allowed to open from 8am to 9pm weekdays, 8am to 5pm on Saturdays, 10am to 5pm on Sundays, and on public holidays, excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday (when they must remain closed), and ANZAC Day, when they can open from 12pm until 5pm.
Currently, major shops can only open from 8am to 6pm on weekdays (except Thursdays), 8am to 9pm on Thursdays, 8am to 5pm on Saturdays, and must close on Sundays and public holidays.
Comments attributed to Commerce Minister Sue Ellery:
"I am pleased to have approved Albany's application for extended retail trading hours, as it reflects the community's desire for greater flexibility and convenience.
"These new retail trading hours are a testament to our commitment to supporting local business and enhancing the city's appeal with visitors.
"We are excited to see the positive impact they will have on the community."
Comments attributed to Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens:
"The Albany community has spoken, and I am pleased to support its desire for extended retail trading hours.
"I am looking forward to shoppers supporting our local businesses as they transition to extended hours in February 2025, and welcome the opportunity that this positive development presents to retail employers and employees, as well as to visitors to Albany."
Comments attributed to City of Albany Mayor Greg Stocks:
"Our community expressed a clear and strong opinion on the future of retail trading in Albany, and I am pleased that the State Government has approved this change for our residents.
"It is uplifting to see the voice of the Albany community heard by local and State Government and I look forward to this change benefiting our community."
