Albany trading hours extension full steam ahead, as commerce minister green lights change for February 1

The State Government has approved an extension of the City of Albany’s retail trading hours, confirming the changes will come into effect from February 1. Commerce Minister Sue Ellery signed off on the permanent change last month, marking the final step in a decades-long debate. The formal announcement of the changes was made on Wednesday. “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,” Ms Ellery said. “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.” From February 1, 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. This excludes Christmas Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day, when they can open from 12pm until 5pm. The decision came after the results of a community consultation by Catalyst Research that revealed 80 per cent of more than 11,000 surveyed residents were in favour of the change. The debate was reignited three times over the last two decades with a 2005 referendum, a consultation in 2012 and this year’s survey. City of Albany mayor Greg Stocks, who said he would reopen the trading hours debate in his mayoral election campaign, was pleased to see a definitive decision made. “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,” he said. “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.” Member for Albany Rebecca Stephens said she hoped shoppers remembered to support local businesses after the extended opening of larger franchises. “The Albany community has spoken, and I am pleased to support its desire for extended retail trading hours,” she said. “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.”