Extended trading hours to reignite WA businesses and community

In a win for WA retail businesses and consumers, the State Government has approved 36 additional trading hours for general Perth retailers and some regional stores during the festive season and for some future public holidays. 

Due to an outdated law, the Minister for Commerce must permit temporary trading hours every December.

While some companies have managed to secure long-term exemptions to this 40-year-old law, most WA businesses are not afforded the same right. Ultimately, this means consumers are forced to shop online for Christmas. 

“We’ve extended retail trading hours this Christmas to make shopping more convenient for the community and to help drive sales that support our vital retail sector,” said Commerce Minister Dr Tony Buti. 

Speaking at CCIWA’s Business Breakfast with the WA Premier this morning, Premier Roger Cook said although his government has ensured people can shop longer and later during holidays over the next year, deregulating retail trade hours was not on the agenda.

“I continue to be anxious about the impact deregulation would have on small businesses competing against large retailers, but we continue to listen to industry and are focused on having a healthier retail field,” he said. 

A win for WA businesses

CCIWA has long since called on the State Government to reduce restrictions on trading hours to reignite local business and align with contemporary retail trade environments, with a policy submission in 2021 highlighting the key benefits. 

Earlier this year, CCIWA’s September Consumer Confidence Survey found 65% of WA shoppers supported expanding Sunday trading in Perth.

While this year’s temporary change is welcome, CCIWA continues to push for permanent reform in fairer shopping hours to reflect a modern city supporting its local economy.

CCIWA Head of Policy Dr Anthea Wesley said the increased flexibility in trading hours would benefit WA’s small businesses.  

“These additional shopping hours will drive foot traffic into community shopping precincts and, importantly, support our local economy,” she said.

“When consumers have choice, ultimately, it keeps local businesses strong.”

Extended trading hours 

Starting Saturday, December 6, 2025, the new trading hours will be:  

• Saturday: 8am to 6pm (normally 8am to 5pm).
• Sunday and public holidays: 8am to 6pm (normally 11am to 5pm).
• Monday, December 15 to Wednesday, December 24: Larger shops may open 7am to 9pm on weekdays. 

Following the festive season, general Perth retailers and some regional stores are now permitted to trade longer from 8am to 6pm on most public holidays. These include New Year’s Day, Australia Day, Labour Day, Easter Monday, ANZAC Day public holiday, WA Day and the King’s Birthday. 

To check trading hours near you, visit the Consumer Protection website. 

Find out how we advocate for regulation that helps not hinders here.