Christmas shopping will not be affected by the change of government says Richard Evans, the executive director of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA).
“Traditionally late year elections have a negative impact upon Christmas spending, but I would expect that a resounding result in this year’s election will have a positive impact upon consumer spending,” Evans says. “During this election campaign we did not have a dip in demand.”
He expects a 6.7% year-on-year increase in spending this Christmas given consumer confidence during the election campaign.
“While retailers remain concerned about impending changes to labour laws – as they are likely to add to the burden of operational costs, ultimately flowing to the consumer with price increases – this is some time off and will not impact current demand.”