New Public Holidays

[verbatim9]

Declaring Christmas Eve a public holiday could cost up to $137 million

Declaring Christmas Eve a public holiday could cost up to $137 million

FELICITY CALDWELL AUGUST 04, 2019


Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the changes would allow workers to have the night of Christmas Eve off or be properly compensated.Credit:AAP Image/ Darren England

"The night before Christmas is as important to families as the day itself," she said.

"It's a very special time for family and friends as well as communities and churches to come together.

"While the government can't restore the weekend penalty rate cuts inflicted upon some 160,000 Queenslanders by the then Turnbull-Morrison government, we can at least do the right thing for people working on Christmas Eve."

Employees are entitled to refuse to work on a public holiday, under reasonable circumstances.

However, documents released as part of the consultation process reveal the decision would come at a multimillion-dollar cost.

The estimated cost of extra wages to Queensland industry was between $41.3 million to $136.9 million.

It would cost the public sector between $9.4 million to $21.1 million in additional wages.

The paper also suggested some employers may decide not to open their business, leading to a loss of income for employees, while the cost of extra penalty rates could be passed on to consumers.

On the flipside, a boost to workers' pay packets may lead to increased spending at post-Christmas sales.

The change was expected to affect private hospitals, disability care facilities, hotels, freight and airport services, independent retail stores, fast food outlets, petrol stations, pubs, restaurants and clubs.

In the public sector, affected industries include public holidays, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, prison officers, public transport workers and energy workers.

Both South Australia and the Northern Territory recognise Christmas Eve as a part-day public holiday from 7pm.

The paper said the actual costs of the new public holiday in South Australia, introduced in 2012, were lower than predicted.

Under the Queensland proposal, a worker in the hospitality industry would be $146 better off after working Christmas Eve.

Asked if small restaurants would be forced to close their doors on Christmas Eve, Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said the proposal was great for small business.

"Many employers do the right thing, it's a special time at Christmas, and what it will mean for small restaurants and cafes and even large restaurants is they can charge the surcharge now (on customers)," she said.

"To attract workers, many businesses have to pay workers additional funds but they can't charge the surcharge, once we declare it a part public holiday, they'll be able to then charge a surcharge."

The SDA union, which represents retail, warehousing and fast food workers, has been lobbying the state government over the issue since 2017 and welcomed the move.

"Many people who work 9 to 5 jobs already enjoy Christmas Eve off - however, our members in retail, fast food and warehousing have often missed out and had to be at work until 9pm, or even midnight," SDA state secretary Chris Gazenbeek said.

"Many employees work extremely hard at very unsociable times to provide a seven-day-a-week service to the public."

But LNP leader Deb Frecklington said Labor needed to ensure the proposal did not cost jobs and increase prices.

Queensland has 12 public holidays in 2019.

The proposal will be open for public consultation for 28 days.

The Palaszczuk government hopes to pass laws to introduce the new public holiday before Christmas Eve this year.

[verbatim9]

^^I will be opposing this measure in a submission. It's not needed. Public transport costs are way too high as it is. I rather have money go into new efficient buses, better services and infrastructure than a new Christmas Eve holiday. It will slug the hospitality sector as well as the retail sector putting pressure on prices. It will also affect Airport and general transport services throughout Qld. It will just add unnecessary costs to products, services and transport.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2019/8/4/palaszczuk-government-wants-christmas-eve-made-a-public-holiday

Media Statements
JOINT STATEMENT

Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for Education and Minister for Industrial Relations
The Honourable Grace Grace

Sunday, August 04, 2019

Palaszczuk Government wants Christmas Eve made a public holiday

The Palaszczuk Government plans to make Christmas Eve a public holiday after 6pm to ensure all Queenslanders who are required to work that night are properly compensated.

Premier Palaszczuk said the move would ensure Queensland workers get a fair go and fair pay on that most important of nights and during this year's festive season.

"It would ensure workers have the right to have Christmas Eve off as a public holiday just as they do for Christmas Day.

"The night before Christmas is as important to families as the day itself.

"It's a very special time for family and friends as well as communities and churches to come together.

"Many Queenslanders though, do have to work Christmas Eve and the change would ensure proper compensation for them," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"Making it a public holiday would give those who have to work like essential services staff, hospitality workers and shop employee's better pay for doing so.

"A worker in the hospitality industry would be better off by around $146 dollars for the night, according to the Hospitality Industry General Award.

"While some have no choice, others should have the right to say no to Christmas eve shifts with the full protection of the law.

"While the government can't restore the weekend penalty rate cuts inflicted upon some 160,000 Queenslanders by the then Turnbull/Morrison Government we can at least do the right thing for people working on Christmas Eve."

The Premier said the proposed law change was no reflection on Queensland employers who already acknowledge the Christmas spirit.

"I'd be surprised if we had Scrooges treating the festive evening as part of the normal work day work when employees should be able to celebrate Christmas," the Premier said.

"But it's undeniable that society is changing and a protection like this could be needed in the future."

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace wants employers, employees and the wider community to have their say during the next 28 days of public consultation on the proposed change.

"Of course, it's widely accepted now that anyone who has to work on a public holiday should be fairly compensated.

"For so many people the Christmas season begins on Christmas Eve and a part-day public holiday from 6pm and covering the six hours to 12 midnight on this date would recognise the historic importance of this special time," Ms Grace said.

"Queensland would be the third Australian jurisdiction to implement this measure, with South Australia and the Northern Territory making similar changes in 2012 and 2016 respectively.

"A 2013 review of the arrangements in South Australia found there was strong opinion that Christmas Eve held a special status in the community in-line with it being recognised as a public holiday.

"And that there was considerable community support for the improved protections and wages for workers that come with a public holiday.

"I would be surprised if the same view didn't apply here," Ms Grace said.

"Several industries and services may be affected by a part-day Christmas Eve public holiday, and we encourage everyone to have their say on this proposed change."

Subject to public consultation, the Palaszczuk Government hopes to make the necessary legislative change for the special holiday to take effect from Christmas Eve this year.

Further information is available at https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday   

Interested parties can have their say by making written submissions to:

Email:  publichol@oir.qld.gov.au

Post:    Christmas Eve Part-Day Public Holiday Consultation

Office of Industrial Relations 

GPO Box 69

Brisbane QLD 4001

Written submissions must be received by 4pm Monday, 2 September 2019.

ENDS

[verbatim9]

^^This is terrible how she refers to business as scrooges. It's like Labor is saying that business is the bad guy. That community needs to be forced into a Public Holiday on Christmas Eve to retain the Christmas spirit. All because the unions and Labor want it.

[verbatim9]

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1157928017961709569

[verbatim9]

https://twitter.com/9NewsQueensland/status/1157930763657998338

[achiruel]

Making Christmas Eve (after 6pm) is a good idea IMO. We live in a society, not just an economy, as some posters here seem to believe. People need time off to spend with their family & friends, and Christmas Eve as a particularly special time for many people.

[Fares_Fair]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2019/8/4/palaszczuk-government-wants-christmas-eve-made-a-public-holiday

Media Statements
JOINT STATEMENT

Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for Education and Minister for Industrial Relations
The Honourable Grace Grace

Sunday, August 04, 2019

Palaszczuk Government wants Christmas Eve made a public holiday

The Palaszczuk Government plans to make Christmas Eve a public holiday after 6pm to ensure all Queenslanders who are required to work that night are properly compensated.

Premier Palaszczuk said the move would ensure Queensland workers get a fair go and fair pay on that most important of nights and during this year's festive season.

"It would ensure workers have the right to have Christmas Eve off as a public holiday just as they do for Christmas Day.

"The night before Christmas is as important to families as the day itself.

"It's a very special time for family and friends as well as communities and churches to come together.

"Many Queenslanders though, do have to work Christmas Eve and the change would ensure proper compensation for them," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"Making it a public holiday would give those who have to work like essential services staff, hospitality workers and shop employee's better pay for doing so.

"A worker in the hospitality industry would be better off by around $146 dollars for the night, according to the Hospitality Industry General Award.

"While some have no choice, others should have the right to say no to Christmas eve shifts with the full protection of the law.

"While the government can't restore the weekend penalty rate cuts inflicted upon some 160,000 Queenslanders by the then Turnbull/Morrison Government we can at least do the right thing for people working on Christmas Eve."

The Premier said the proposed law change was no reflection on Queensland employers who already acknowledge the Christmas spirit.

"I'd be surprised if we had Scrooges treating the festive evening as part of the normal work day work when employees should be able to celebrate Christmas," the Premier said.

"But it's undeniable that society is changing and a protection like this could be needed in the future."

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace wants employers, employees and the wider community to have their say during the next 28 days of public consultation on the proposed change.

"Of course, it's widely accepted now that anyone who has to work on a public holiday should be fairly compensated.

"For so many people the Christmas season begins on Christmas Eve and a part-day public holiday from 6pm and covering the six hours to 12 midnight on this date would recognise the historic importance of this special time," Ms Grace said.

"Queensland would be the third Australian jurisdiction to implement this measure, with South Australia and the Northern Territory making similar changes in 2012 and 2016 respectively.

"A 2013 review of the arrangements in South Australia found there was strong opinion that Christmas Eve held a special status in the community in-line with it being recognised as a public holiday.

"And that there was considerable community support for the improved protections and wages for workers that come with a public holiday.

"I would be surprised if the same view didn't apply here," Ms Grace said.

"Several industries and services may be affected by a part-day Christmas Eve public holiday, and we encourage everyone to have their say on this proposed change."

Subject to public consultation, the Palaszczuk Government hopes to make the necessary legislative change for the special holiday to take effect from Christmas Eve this year.

Further information is available at https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday   

Interested parties can have their say by making written submissions to:

Email:  publichol@oir.qld.gov.au

Post:    Christmas Eve Part-Day Public Holiday Consultation

Office of Industrial Relations 

GPO Box 69

Brisbane QLD 4001

Written submissions must be received by 4pm Monday, 2 September 2019.

ENDS

Another State Government pre-determined survey, what could go wrong?
Ministerial IP addresses being converted to non-fixed as we speak.

It's more a Jackie Trad scandal distraction plan in reality.

[ozbob]

I regularly worked evenings on Christmas Eve and didn't expect additional moolah.  Tough turkey !!

This Govt is increasingly desperate for distractions ' hey look over here  ' ...

Restaurants forced to close for new public holiday https://t.co/fpv8oO6aM2 #qldpol

— ozbob13 (@ozbob13) August 4, 2019

[Otto]

I've always had to take leave on Christmas Eve as in our family, Christmas Eve is a time for families to get together and feast after which, open gifts.
It is tradition and to us is more important than Christmas Day.

[verbatim9]

Taking leave is how it should be. Not necessarily being remunerated more because you choose to work on that evening. Many choose to work as they celebrate Christmas on Christmas day. I guess it depends what is the past family tradition and which country you were raised in. Have I missed something? Christmas day was always the main day and most traditionally celebrated. Christmas Eve has always been a European and American tradition. Even in Countries where Christmas Eve is celebrated its not marked as a Public Holiday.

[verbatim9]

Chirstmas Eve public holiday 'a mistake': Industry groups



Brisbanetimes----->https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/queensland/queensland-chirstmas-eve-public-holiday-a-mistake-industry-groups-20190805-p52dzs.html

Queensland Chirstmas Eve public holiday 'a mistake': Industry groups

AARON BUNCH AUGUST 05, 2019

Industry groups say the Queensland government's plan to compensate Christmas Eve workers for lost penalty rates by making it a part-public holiday is a mistake.

The Palaszczuk government says the proposal would compensate workers for recently-reduced penalty rates and give them the right to have the evening off as a public holiday, just as they do for Christmas Day.

Dominique Lamb, CEO of National Retail Association, has criticised the proposal to make Christmas Eve a part-public holiday.Credit:Attila Csaszar

But the National Retail Association and The Australian Industry Group have taken aim at the plan, saying it will drive up costs and hurt struggling businesses.

"The retailers who will be hurt most by this are not large multi-nationals, but mum-and-dad small business owners who work ridiculous hours just to make ends meet," NRA chief executive Dominique Lamb said in a statement on Monday.

The proposal, which is set to be introduced this year following a consultation period, would push up wage bills and potentially lead to higher prices for shoppers, Ms Lamb said.

Australian Industry Group chief executive Innes Willox urged the Queensland government to abandon the plan, saying it will make local businesses less competitive with interstate and overseas firms.

"The government's reported argument that cafes will be able to recoup the cost by charging a public holiday surcharge, fails to recognise that most of the businesses that will be impacted are not cafes," he said.

The current ad-hoc approach to declaring public holidays across Australia is undermining the national economy, he said.

Queensland will be the third Australian jurisdiction to implement this measure if the plan is adopted, with South Australia and the Northern Territory making similar changes in 2012 and 2016 respectively.

A five-month public consultation period will close on September 2.

AAP

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> 'Ghost town' warning over new public holiday

ADELAIDE has become a ghost town after 7pm on Christmas Eve thanks to the decision to make the night a public holiday, hoteliers say.

As the Palaszczuk Government begins consultation on plans to make the night before Christmas a public holiday in Queensland, the Australian Hotels Association, South Australia, general manager Ian Horne has warned the change has meant less choice for consumers and less hours for workers in SA.

"It has meant that a significant amount of hotels and cafes and restaurants simply don't open because of the cost,' Mr Horne said.

"The general feeling here was that you could open and trade, but because the wage component is such a high part of the hospitality cost then you are really working for nothing.

"The end result is that Christmas Eve ... is largely a ghost town."

His Queensland counterpart, Queensland Hotels Association CEO Bernie Hogan said he believed pubs, clubs and restaurants would follow suit and close should Labor adopt the policy here.

"I think it's poorly conceived at the present time because it really has ignored the fact that hospitality or pubs, particularly in regional areas, are going to be unfairly disadvantaged here," Mr Hogan said.

"They won't trade past 6pm because they simply can't afford to pay people in areas where there are not suddenly going to be extra people walking through the doors at 6pm."

The change could be in place in time for this Christmas.

The QHA is hoping the Palaszczuk Government will delay the move "at least" to allow more consultation.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said she encouraged the QHA to make a submission which would be considered before a final decision was made.

"If the government decides to create the part day public holiday, then business owners, like hoteliers, would be able to charge a surcharge to cover any increased costs they may incur as a result of having to pay penalty rates for their staff.

"I am aware that many small business owners already pay their staff a little extra to compensate them for working at this special time."

SDA Queensland state secretary Chris Gazenbeek - who successfully lobbied the Government to consider the change - said research conducted in SA following the implementation of the public holiday had shown the cost to government and industry was not as great as initially predicted.

He said research also showed there were greater productivity gains as a result of the move there.

[Old Northern Road]

I regularly worked evenings on Christmas Eve and didn't expect additional moolah.  Tough turkey !!

Yeah and you could buy a house for $50

Boomers don't know how easy they had it

[ozbob]

$50 ?

Certainly  had  better rail networks. My first house was around 90k. I worked full time from 15 years of age. Saved a little each pay for the deposit. At least now I have built up some assets to pass on. I started from scratch, many boomers did.

[achiruel]

My dad bought a house in 1983 for around $50k. His take home pay was about $160pw, and he was a farm labourer.
Average house now is about $550k. Average take-home pay nowhere near $1760pw.

[verbatim9]

My dad bought a house in 1983 for around $50k. His take home pay was about $160pw, and he was a farm labourer.
Average house now is about $550k. Average take-home pay nowhere near $1760pw.

$50 ?

Certainly  had  better rail networks. My first house was around 90k. I worked full time from 15 years of age. Saved a little each pay for the deposit. At least now I have built up some assets to pass on. I started from scratch, many boomers did.

I regularly worked evenings on Christmas Eve and didn't expect additional moolah.  Tough turkey !!

Yeah and you could buy a house for $50

Boomers don't know how easy they had it

Queensland Times --> 'Ghost town' warning over new public holiday

ADELAIDE has become a ghost town after 7pm on Christmas Eve thanks to the decision to make the night a public holiday, hoteliers say.

As the Palaszczuk Government begins consultation on plans to make the night before Christmas a public holiday in Queensland, the Australian Hotels Association, South Australia, general manager Ian Horne has warned the change has meant less choice for consumers and less hours for workers in SA.

"It has meant that a significant amount of hotels and cafes and restaurants simply don't open because of the cost,' Mr Horne said.

"The general feeling here was that you could open and trade, but because the wage component is such a high part of the hospitality cost then you are really working for nothing.

"The end result is that Christmas Eve ... is largely a ghost town."

His Queensland counterpart, Queensland Hotels Association CEO Bernie Hogan said he believed pubs, clubs and restaurants would follow suit and close should Labor adopt the policy here.

"I think it's poorly conceived at the present time because it really has ignored the fact that hospitality or pubs, particularly in regional areas, are going to be unfairly disadvantaged here," Mr Hogan said.

"They won't trade past 6pm because they simply can't afford to pay people in areas where there are not suddenly going to be extra people walking through the doors at 6pm."

The change could be in place in time for this Christmas.

The QHA is hoping the Palaszczuk Government will delay the move "at least" to allow more consultation.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said she encouraged the QHA to make a submission which would be considered before a final decision was made.

"If the government decides to create the part day public holiday, then business owners, like hoteliers, would be able to charge a surcharge to cover any increased costs they may incur as a result of having to pay penalty rates for their staff.

"I am aware that many small business owners already pay their staff a little extra to compensate them for working at this special time."

SDA Queensland state secretary Chris Gazenbeek - who successfully lobbied the Government to consider the change - said research conducted in SA following the implementation of the public holiday had shown the cost to government and industry was not as great as initially predicted.

He said research also showed there were greater productivity gains as a result of the move there.

Restaurants, pubs will likely close on Christmas Eve if public holiday plan proceeds, hoteliers warn

Couriermail------->https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-government/restaurants-pubs-will-likely-close-on-christmas-eve-if-public-holiday-plan-proceeds-hoteliers-warn/news-story/b582d46d1d84d99cc6ba00ca8de33362

Restaurants, pubs will likely close on Christmas Eve if public holiday plan proceeds, hoteliers warn
Hoteliers are calling for the Palaszczuk Government to delay Queensland's new public holiday after the same change in another major Aussie city resulted in businesses closing for the night and workers losing hours.

Sarah Vogler, State Political Editor, The Courier-Mail
Subscriber only

August 9, 2019 12:00am


ADELAIDE has become a ghost town after 7pm on Christmas Eve thanks to the decision to make the night a public holiday, hoteliers say.

As the Palaszczuk Government begins consultation on plans to make the night before Christmas a public holiday in Queensland, the Australian Hotels Association, South Australia, general manager Ian Horne has warned the change has meant less choice for consumers and less hours for workers in SA.

"It has meant that a significant amount of hotels and cafes and restaurants simply don't open because of the cost,' Mr Horne said.

"The general feeling here was that you could open and trade, but because the wage component is such a high part of the hospitality cost then you are really working for nothing.

"The end result is that Christmas Eve ... is largely a ghost town."

His Queensland counterpart, Queensland Hotels Association CEO Bernie Hogan said he believed pubs, clubs and restaurants would follow suit and close should Labor adopt the policy here.

"I think it's poorly conceived at the present time because it really has ignored the fact that hospitality or pubs, particularly in regional areas, are going to be unfairly disadvantaged here," Mr Hogan said.

"They won't trade past 6pm because they simply can't afford to pay people in areas where there are not suddenly going to be extra people walking through the doors at 6pm."

The change could be in place in time for this Christmas.

The QHA is hoping the Palaszczuk Government will delay the move "at least" to allow more consultation.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said she encouraged the QHA to make a submission which would be considered before a final decision was made.

"If the government decides to create the part day public holiday, then business owners, like hoteliers, would be able to charge a surcharge to cover any increased costs they may incur as a result of having to pay penalty rates for their staff.

"I am aware that many small business owners already pay their staff a little extra to compensate them for working at this special time."

SDA Queensland state secretary Chris Gazenbeek – who successfully lobbied the Government to consider the change – said research conducted in SA following the implementation of the public holiday had shown the cost to government and industry was not as great as initially predicted.

He said research also showed there were greater productivity gains as a result of the move there.

[verbatim9]

Looks like the SDA wants to ensure the stores, pubs and restaurants and other related businesses are closed at 6 pm for ever on Christmas eve. Just a few years back Coles, Woolies, Kmart etc.....were allowed to trade until 9pm unrestricted. The current Government has created a closed shop on Christmas Eve in rolling back retail trading hours on Christmas eve to 6pm. When the LNP regains power they will deregulate retail hours again, so I think this is a strategic move by SDA to ensure that everyone is paid more on Christmas eve and being able to reject work on that evening without consequence. I think this is an extreme measure. I don't agree with the proposal of the Part Public Holiday and it best its withdrawn. (Queensland is the only State in Australia where stores close at 6 pm on Christmas Eve.) I know this situation is very inconvenient for myself in relation to Grocery shopping prior to Christmas.

Plus with the Statement put out by the Labor State Government saying that business are scrooges on Christmas eve and that a Public Holiday is needed is wrong. Business always tend to look after their staff over Christmas with bonuses, Christmas Hampers, Christmas Parties and early marks etc....

[ozbob]

This public holiday proposal is just more desperate politics from the Palaszczuk  Government ...

[techblitz]

She has no idea on priorities.....literally losing her grip on youth crime and she decides to look at xmas eve shopping hours  :conf

https://www.news.com.au/national/queensland/gold-coast-teen-dies-after-crashing-stolen-ute/news-story/850acb33e1eeaf07c026d2936c14b6c2

http://www.mygc.com.au/m1-commuter-car-jacked-on-the-side-of-the-motorway/

She had better start getting these youngsters/suspended students into gainful employment because the problem aint gonna go away without spending hundreds of millions more to contain it....and that will mean even less money where it is needed like hospitals/transport..

[verbatim9]

Public Submissions close on September 2. In relation to the proposed part Public Holiday on Dec 24 from 6 pm each year.

https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday

[#Metro]

I don't agree with partial public holidays.

Give the full day or nothing.

[verbatim9]

Public Submissions close on September 2. In relation to the proposed part Public Holiday on Dec 24 from 6 pm each year.

https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday

I don't agree with partial public holidays.

Give the full day or nothing.

^^Some years we have up to 5 Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year's depending on when Christmas Day falls. Is it necessary to have more Public Holidays over this season? Is it necessary to create extra cost for services over this period for Public Transport with higher wage costs. If this goes ahead, this costs will be passed onto the consumer and commuter.

[verbatim9]

Public Submissions close on September 2. In relation to the proposed part Public Holiday on Dec 24 from 6 pm each year.

https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday

I don't agree with partial public holidays.

Give the full day or nothing.

^^Some years we have up to 5 Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year's depending on when Christmas Day falls. Is it necessary to have more Public Holidays over this season? Is it necessary to create extra cost for services over this period for Public Transport with higher wage costs. If this goes ahead, this costs will be passed onto the consumer and commuter.

Also in relation to Public Transport. Everyone on this forum realises that there is an overtime problem in relation to wages in QR. If this Part Public Holiday goes ahead? QR workers will be able to refuse work on that evening. This will create potential cancellations and increased overtime as QR rostering will seek others not rostered on to work for generous pay. Is this fair for the Qld taxpayer and the Public Transport budget? Does anyone want a #Christmas Railfail? Its likely to extend to buses and Ferries as well  Creating a Public Transport Christmas Eve Fail!

^^A recent article that Australia is heading into a broad spectrum retail recession. Does anyone want extra costs placed on the retail sector right now? These are issues one needs to think about prior to making a submission for a part public holiday for the evening of December 24.

https://news.com.au/finance/business/retail/retail-sector-in-recession-warning-signs-for-kmart-big-w-myer-and-david-jones/news-story/22b6d944bb3d82fc6d93437d433c04b6

[Fares_Fair]

^ Tweeted 

[achiruel]

https://news.com.au/finance/business/retail/retail-sector-in-recession-warning-signs-for-kmart-big-w-myer-and-david-jones/news-story/22b6d944bb3d82fc6d93437d433c04b6

The article mentions quite a number of retailers that are doing quite well, JB Hi-Fi, Bunnings. 0.2% drop for Kmart could just be due to seasonal variation, e.g. if winter is not particularly cold (as it hasn't been until the past few days), they won't sell as many winter clothes/blankets etc. Yes, the high-end departments stores have slumped, and have been going that way for a while, as people realise they are horribly overpriced.

Anyway, FWIW, I have made a submission to the OIR, in favour of the part-day public holiday, but starting at 7pm rather than 6pm, in-line with existing jurisdictions which have it (NT & SA), and also to allow closing-up time for stores that trade until 6pm without having to go into penalty rates.

[#Metro]

So if QR costs increase at that time, does that mean service cuts?

[verbatim9]

Public Submissions close on September 2. In relation to the proposed part Public Holiday on Dec 24 from 6 pm each year.

https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/industrial-relations/proposed-christmas-eve-part-day-public-holiday

I don't agree with partial public holidays.

Give the full day or nothing.

^^Some years we have up to 5 Public Holidays for Christmas and New Year's depending on when Christmas Day falls. Is it necessary to have more Public Holidays over this season? Is it necessary to create extra cost for services over this period for Public Transport with higher wage costs. If this goes ahead, this costs will be passed onto the consumer and commuter.

Also in relation to Public Transport. Everyone on this forum realises that there is an overtime problem in relation to wages in QR. If this Part Public Holiday goes ahead? QR workers will be able to refuse work on that evening. This will create potential cancellations and increased overtime as QR rostering will seek others not rostered on to work for generous pay. Is this fair for the Qld taxpayer and the Public Transport budget? Does anyone want a #Christmas Railfail? Its likely to extend to buses and Ferries as well  Creating a Public Transport Christmas Eve Fail!

^^A recent article that Australia is heading into a broad spectrum retail recession. Does anyone want extra costs placed on the retail sector right now? These are issues one needs to think about prior to making a submission for a part public holiday for the evening of December 24.

https://news.com.au/finance/business/retail/retail-sector-in-recession-warning-signs-for-kmart-big-w-myer-and-david-jones/news-story/22b6d944bb3d82fc6d93437d433c04b6

^ Tweeted 

https://news.com.au/finance/business/retail/retail-sector-in-recession-warning-signs-for-kmart-big-w-myer-and-david-jones/news-story/22b6d944bb3d82fc6d93437d433c04b6

The article mentions quite a number of retailers that are doing quite well, JB Hi-Fi, Bunnings. 0.2% drop for Kmart could just be due to seasonal variation, e.g. if winter is not particularly cold (as it hasn't been until the past few days), they won't sell as many winter clothes/blankets etc. Yes, the high-end departments stores have slumped, and have been going that way for a while, as people realise they are horribly overpriced.

Anyway, FWIW, I have made a submission to the OIR, in favour of the part-day public holiday, but starting at 7pm rather than 6pm, in-line with existing jurisdictions which have it (NT & SA), and also to allow closing-up time for stores that trade until 6pm without having to go into penalty rates.

So if QR costs increase at that time, does that mean service cuts?

The best Christmas Present the Qld Government can give to the overall Queensland population, is to permanently withdrawal the Part Public Holiday proposal  from the calendar for December 24 from 6pm.

[verbatim9]

Submissions closed today re Part Public Holiday December 24 from 6pm.

[verbatim9]

Multiple Industries opposed to the proposed Part Public Holiday on December 24 each year.

Inside Retail------->https://www.insideretail.com.au/news/making-christmas-eve-a-public-holiday-too-costly-industry-groups-say-201909#daily

Making Christmas Eve a public holiday too costly, industry groups say

SEPTEMBER 06, 2019


Multiple industry associations have reiterated their opposition to the Queensland government's push to make Christmas Eve a partial public holiday.

The National Retail Association (NRA) and several prominent Queensland industry groups, including the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland, as well as the Australian Retailers' Association (ARA), urged the government to abandon its proposal this week, calling it a stunt to appeal to unions before a state election next October.

"With flat GDP figures revealed yesterday, weak July retail trade figures, and other markers of a slowing economy – weighed against a state election next October – this is just a pre-election stunt," ARA executive director Russell Zimmerman said.

Cost estimated at more than $100 million

The Palaszczuk government pitched the proposal in August as a way to offset the reduction in Sunday penalty rates that took effect for full-time, part-time and casual works on the retail, fast food and pharmacy awards from July 1.

The move would enable workers on these awards to earn the public holiday penalty rate (225 per cent of normal wages for full-time and part-time staff and 250 per cent for casuals) from 6pm on Christmas Eve, one of the busiest trading days of the year for retailers.

Documents released during the consultation period, which closed on Monday, showed the extra wages could cost Queensland businesses between $41.3 million and $136.9 million.

However, this estimate is based on the number of employees who worked on Christmas Day in 2011, when trading is restricted for many businesses, and employer association Ai Group believes the actual cost could be three times higher, Brisbane Times reported.

Zimmerman also pointed out that evening and Saturday penalty rates increased for casual workers on the retail award from July 1, which he said diminished the government's argument.

Pay extra, or close early

Faced with the extra cost, some retailers may simply shut their doors at 6pm, which industry groups say would negatively impact last-minute Christmas shoppers. And those who own small businesses may choose to send staff home and work from 6pm themselves.

"Those who will be hurt most by this are not large multi-nationals, but mum-and-dad small businesses who work ridiculous hours just to make ends meet," the NRA said in a statement.

"Many of these outlets also rely on the Christmas trade period to support their operation during more lean times of the year," the statement read.

The government's suggestion that businesses could pass on the extra cost to consumers is simply not feasible in retail, Zimmerman said.

"Retailers don't operate 'surcharge collection' businesses; they don't have a mechanism to load prices to cover increased costs," he said.

Need to consistency

Zimmerman said the proposal also creates the absurd situation that a multi-site retailer would pay its staff in Coolangatta one rate on Christmas Eve and its staff a few hundred metres away in Tweed Heads something else.

While penalty rates apply across the board, public holidays and restricted trading days differ by state. South Australia and the Northern Territory both recognise Christmas Eve as a partial public holiday from 7pm.

But Zimmerman said the Queensland government shouldn't follow suit.

"Just because one government makes a poor policy decision doesn't mean everyone should do it," he said.

[verbatim9]

A proposed partial public holiday on Xmas Eve may sound good, but it will have little impact on families, increase the costs to small business and limit convenience.
@OZretailers @retailaustralia
@The_AiGroup @QUT @QUT_AMPR @QUTBusiness @QUTmedia


https://twitter.com/9NewsQueensland/status/1171676326786240512

[verbatim9]

Qld Labor Government pushes ahead with the Part Public Holiday Bill for Dec 24 each year

A sign that the State Government has completely ignored the voice of Queensland's farmers, retailers and over 400 000 small and medium businesses that cannot afford this part-day public holiday. @CCIQLD #SmallBiz


https://twitter.com/gusmandig/status/1174528294483398656

[ozbob]

Queensland Parliament Hansard

https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/hansard/2019/2019_09_19_DAILY.PDF

Ministerial Statements

Christmas Eve

Hon. G GRACE (McConnel—ALP) (Minister for Education and Minister for Industrial Relations)

(10.06 am): The night before Christmas has become as important to families, friends and religious
communities as the day itself. Like many others in the community, for most of us in this House Christmas
Eve is a night that we get to spend quality time with family and friends—
Mr Mander interjected.

Mr Dick interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Sorry, Minister. The member for Everton will cease his interjections and the
Minister for State Development will cease his interjections.

Ms GRACE: Interesting. I would have thought that the member for Everton would have supported
this as a religious—

Mr SPEAKER: I do not think we require any commentary, Minister. Please continue.

Ms GRACE: Like many others in the community, for most of us in the House, Christmas Eve is a
night to spend quality time with family and friends at church and religious services or other community
and festive events or travelling to be with loved ones on Christmas Day.

There is a group of workers who do not have that luxury and have to work—in pubs and clubs,
warehouses, hospitals and aged-care facilities, on public transport and across the emergency services.
The Palaszczuk government believes that, because of the importance of the evening, these workers
should get the extra legal protections and entitlements that come with a public holiday. That is why we
sought feedback from the community on a proposal to create a part-day public holiday for six hours—
from 6 pm on Christmas Eve.

By making Christmas Eve a public holiday, workers who are required to work would be entitled
in reasonable circumstances to refuse to be rostered on and, if they work, workers would be
compensated fairly in line with their award or agreement. The RIS attracted strong community support
during public consultation, with 1,779 submissions received, 1,271, or 71 per cent, in favour of creating
a part-day public holiday and 508 submissions, or 29 per cent, opposed to the proposal.

We received submissions from retail workers, bus drivers, mothers and religious leaders, just to
name a few, who wrote of the ever-growing importance of Christmas Eve as a special time of year and
the need to properly compensate those who were required to work. Some have been working every
Christmas Eve for years, like Rhonda Jenner who said in her submission that a public holiday would be
excellent to spend time with family. 'If this happens this year,' Rhonda said, 'It will be the first one I've
had home with family for eight years.'

On the basis of the strong support from the community, the Palaszczuk government will move to
legislate this new part-day public holiday. Queensland will be the third state jurisdiction to implement
this measure, with South Australia and the Northern Territory making similar changes in 2012 and 2016
respectively. A 2013 review of the arrangements in South Australia found that there was a strong
opinion that Christmas Eve held a special status in the community with line with it being recognised as
a public holiday and a special time for busy families to spend quality time together.

Mr Bleijie interjected.

Mr SPEAKER: Member for Kawana, you are warned under the standing orders.

Ms GRACE: The interjections are really quite amazing, Mr Speaker.

Mr SPEAKER: Minister, can I give you some guidance: if I have dealt with the situation I do not
require any commentary.

Ms GRACE: Christmas Eve has become as special for quality family time and church and
religious communities as the day itself and the Palaszczuk government's plan to enact a part-day public
holiday for this special time in 2019 reflects this change in Queensland's community values.

[verbatim9]

^^I wonder if any amendments to the Bill will be made during the parliamentary committee process?

[Gazza]

So if QR costs increase at that time, does that mean service cuts?

No, it means they just end up spending more.

[verbatim9]

Just a couple ideas on the Qld Public Holiday debacle. I am not in favour of this one proposed and would rather some evening out of holidays in the first half of the year.

Easter Saturday should be returned to a regular Saturday. The holiday should be moved to June. The former Queens Birthday long weekend to align us with NSW and most of the country. The net amount of Public holidays would remain the same, but give retailers, business and hospitality a reprieve on the Easter long weekend. It will also spread the holidays out a bit.

[verbatim9]

Couriermal---->  A new part-day public holiday for Queensland might seem like a good idea for workers — but is it too much pain for too little gain?

QLD POLITICS

Christmas Eve public holiday to compound business woes: CCIQ

A new part-day public holiday for Queensland might seem like a good idea for workers — but is it too much pain for too little gain?

October 15, 2019 12:00am

THERE isn't enough time for businesses to prepare ahead of the contentious Christmas Eve part-day public holiday that's set to be introduced this year, it's been claimed, amid concerns the legislation has been rushed.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland spokesman Dan Petrie said the timing of the new holiday represented the "imposition of another layer to an already significant compliance mountain" on small businesses that will need to organise payroll and HR to ensure they're compliant.

The public holiday, which the State Government hopes will be in place this year, will kick in from 6pm on December 24.

The parliamentary committee tasked with assessing the legislation is due to report back on November 4, meaning it will need to be debated and passed during the final sitting week at the end of November.

"There's not enough time, the whole thing has been rushed," Mr Petrie said.

Opposition industrial relations spokesman Jarrod Bleijie said if the changes were rushed in, businesses would only have a few weeks to adjust.

"The last thing anyone wants to see is Queensland turned into a ghost town on Christmas Eve," he said.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said the Government indicated its intention to introduce the change in early August.

"Since then, businesses have had the opportunity to have their say through the consultation regulatory impact statement," she said.

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> What shuts down if extra Christmas holiday goes ahead

POPULAR surf clubs and RSLs are seriously considering shutting their doors when a new Christmas Eve part-day public holiday kicks in, as new analysis shows almost 100 small businesses are thinking about doing the same thing.

Clubs Queensland is expecting the proposed six-hour holiday (from 6pm on December 24), if passed in Parliament next month, to cost its sector $750,000 each year, warning that many venues are considering closing instead.

It comes as Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) analysis of submissions lodged to the State Government revealed ­almost 100 small businesses would consider shutting.

Peak bodies are urging the Government to ditch its plans, however, Industrial Relations

Minister Grace Grace said that the Government intended to proceed with the proposal in time for this year.

"The proposal attracted strong community support during the consultation process, with over 70 per cent of the nearly 1800 submissions in favour of a part-day public holiday on Christmas Eve," Ms Grace said.

It was fair and reasonable for workers to be entitled to extra protections and entitlements for those six hours, she said. However, Clubs Queensland communications and ­government relations manager Laura Bos said that the consultation process had been "farcical".

She said the body provided a response on behalf of the 1100 clubs, including surf clubs and RSLs, which were now considering closing.

"We could not believe that the Government did not consider the weight of our response in light of that," Ms Bos said.

LNP industrial relations spokesman Jarrod Bleijie said that at a time when Queensland had the worst unemployment rate in Australia, the Government should not ­"attack" small businesses.

SPAR store owner Bruce Luchterhand said he would ­decide whether to close for those six hours in December.

"It's an additional cost that we shouldn't have to bare," he said. "The alternative is ... we roster family on."

CCIQ general manager of advocacy Amanda Rohan said Queensland's 450,000 small businesses had reacted angrily to what many considered a "final straw".

"We have seen an overwhelming response to this legislation, which has been introduced by stealth with ­little consultation and at a time where many people are not just doing it tough, but in some cases struggling to survive," she said.

#qldvotes2020  not helping ...

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> 'Twas the night before Christmas, and pay went up 250 per cent

A Queensland bus driver is set to spend his first Christmas Eve with family in seven years after new laws were passed on Wednesday.

From this year, Christmas Eve will be a public holiday from 6pm until midnight.

"Christmas is a time for family. I have not spent a Christmas Eve with my family for the past seven years because I have worked driving a bus so others can go about getting ready for the festivities," the man wrote in a submission to the Parliament.

"I think anyone who works on Christmas Eve deserves to be paid extra."

If employees work, they could receive penalty rates of up to 250 per cent of regular wages.

Retail worker Cassandra Leigh wrote to a parliamentary inquiry on the law: "As someone who has worked in the retail industry for 10-plus years and was often given no choice but to work until sometimes midnight on Christmas Eve to set up for Boxing Day sales, this is a great and necessary move for workers' rights."

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said 71 per cent of public submissions were in favour of creating the holiday.

"It is now society's view that this is no ordinary night. For many, the night before Christmas is as important as the day itself," she said.

"It is a night that most of us get to spend at home with family and friends, at religious and community services and festive events, or travelling to be with family and friends on Christmas Day.

"Christmas Eve is the one time of the year above all that busy families make that special effort to be with one another.

But retail and industry groups - the National Retail Association, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland, Queensland Hotels Association and the Shopping Centre Council of Australia - argued the move would hurt struggling small businesses.

They say small business owners will either pass on the extra costs to customers via higher prices, close their doors or send staff home and work themselves with no extra pay.

Opposition industrial relations spokesman Jarrod Bleijie described the new law as the "Grinch who stole Christmas from the workers and the business groups" and said the LNP would not support anything that would cost jobs or drive up prices for consumers.

"Industry group after industry group lined up to criticise the changes," he said during debate this week.

"No one disputes the fact that workers deserve to be paid for the work they do, but these changes will mean that businesses will not open or will reduce rosters, which means workers will lose out."

In September, Brisbane Times reported the cost of creating the new part-day public holiday could be up to $410 million - three times more expensive than previously estimated.

Going to be interesting what they do with the public transport timetables   ... normal up to peak, then revert to a public holiday timetable?

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes --> 'Twas the night before Christmas, and pay went up 250 per cent

A Queensland bus driver is set to spend his first Christmas Eve with family in seven years after new laws were passed on Wednesday.

From this year, Christmas Eve will be a public holiday from 6pm until midnight.

"Christmas is a time for family. I have not spent a Christmas Eve with my family for the past seven years because I have worked driving a bus so others can go about getting ready for the festivities," the man wrote in a submission to the Parliament.

"I think anyone who works on Christmas Eve deserves to be paid extra."

If employees work, they could receive penalty rates of up to 250 per cent of regular wages.

Retail worker Cassandra Leigh wrote to a parliamentary inquiry on the law: "As someone who has worked in the retail industry for 10-plus years and was often given no choice but to work until sometimes midnight on Christmas Eve to set up for Boxing Day sales, this is a great and necessary move for workers' rights."

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said 71 per cent of public submissions were in favour of creating the holiday.

"It is now society's view that this is no ordinary night. For many, the night before Christmas is as important as the day itself," she said.

"It is a night that most of us get to spend at home with family and friends, at religious and community services and festive events, or travelling to be with family and friends on Christmas Day.

"Christmas Eve is the one time of the year above all that busy families make that special effort to be with one another.

But retail and industry groups - the National Retail Association, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland, Queensland Hotels Association and the Shopping Centre Council of Australia - argued the move would hurt struggling small businesses.

They say small business owners will either pass on the extra costs to customers via higher prices, close their doors or send staff home and work themselves with no extra pay.

Opposition industrial relations spokesman Jarrod Bleijie described the new law as the "Grinch who stole Christmas from the workers and the business groups" and said the LNP would not support anything that would cost jobs or drive up prices for consumers.

"Industry group after industry group lined up to criticise the changes," he said during debate this week.

"No one disputes the fact that workers deserve to be paid for the work they do, but these changes will mean that businesses will not open or will reduce rosters, which means workers will lose out."

In September, Brisbane Times reported the cost of creating the new part-day public holiday could be up to $410 million - three times more expensive than previously estimated.

Going to be interesting what they do with the public transport timetables   ... normal up to peak, then revert to a public holiday timetable?

It's just another cost.Reduced services or extra cost in the running them.

Everything is closed on Christmas eve from 6 pm as from 2 years ago bar small business. Labor and unions  made sure that this State is closed shop on Christmas eve. The only State in Australia to do so. Any attempt to open in the future will be at huge cost to both business and the consumer.