Scrap WA trading restrictions: report
WA should ditch all restrictions on retail trading hours within two years, deregulate the taxi industry and allow major supermarkets to compete against community pharmacists, a wide-ranging report has demanded.
The Federal Government-commissioned report headed by respected economist Ian Harper says consumers are being let down by restrictions that push up prices and reduce choice.
The review, the first of the nation's competition laws in more than two decades, examined restrictions in place across the nation.
Retail trading hours in WA were singled out as a particular problem because of protection given to certain small outlets, despite recent reforms.
According to the review, the restrictions - if left in place - would only further disadvantage bricks-and-mortar retailers as more shoppers shifted to buying online.
Current limits distorted the market, stopped some stores from expanding and ultimately prevented shoppers from doing what they wanted.
"The panel considers that consumer preferences are the best driver of business offerings, including in relation to trading hours," it said.
Professor Harper said WA should deregulate trading hours within two years. Restrictions should only apply on Christmas Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day in the morning.
The report noted the rise of ride-sharing companies such as Uber was shaking up the taxi industry. It argued current arrangements limited the number of taxis on the roads, pushing up costs, which disadvantaged the elderly and poor who may not have access to other transport.
Pharmacies, another politically contentious area, would also be opened to more competition under the recommendations.
