Queensland's 35,500 retailers have been urged to provide comments on proposed changes to Retail Shop Leases Act 1994, Minister for State Development and Innovation, Tony McGrady, said today.

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State Development & Innovation, Tony McGrady
deve...@cabinet.qld.gov.au
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22/09/04

"There is no doubt that Queensland's retailing industry is one of the most important sectors of our economy," Mr McGrady said.

"And the Beattie Government is committed to making sure we have the best possible legislation to protect retailer's rights.

"At the moment there are changes being proposed that are relevant to literally thousands of retailers throughout Queensland.

"That's why we are asking the industry to look at these changes: to make sure they are effective, water-tight and reflect the industries own concerns."

Mr McGrady said examples of issues facing the retail sector included:

* Mandatory minimum retail standards;

* The retail lease dispute resolution processes; and,

* Obligations and responsibilities.

"I would encourage retailers to give us their opinions on these issues and any other issues they might have."

Mr McGrady said the retail industry was the State's largest employer with over 300,000 employees and contributed almost $8 billion to the Queensland economy in 2002-03.

Retailers have until Friday 15 October 2004 to make comment.

The Policy Review Paper outlining the changes to the legislation is available at www.sdi.qld.gov.au/retail

Media Contact: 3224 4600