The National Retail Association (NRA) has slammed the Northern Territory government over moves to introduce half-day public holidays during Christmas trade.

Under the government’s proposal, retailers would have to pay penalty rates to staff who work between 1900 and midnight on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

“There has been no consultation between the Northern Territory government and the retail industry on the possible introduction of half-day public holidays over Christmas and New Year,” said Dominique Lamb, NRA CEO.

“The industry is about to enter one of its busiest trading periods for the year and the NRA is greatly concerned about the impact that such measures will have on small retailers.”

Lamb said that should the government proceed with the proposal, it will lead to some retailers closing their doors on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

“If retailers close their doors, employees miss out on work and consumers are left with fewer options when doing Christmas and New Year shopping.

“We ask that the Government consult with the retail industry and consider the potential consequences of further public holidays during Christmas and New Year before they go ahead with this scheme.”

Access exclusive analysis, locked news and reports with Inside Retail Weekly. Subscribe today and get our premium print publication delivered to your door every week.