By Xavier Smerdon
THE Baillieu Government has been accused of giving Wyndham families a raw deal by forcing them to work on Easter Sunday.
Member for Tarneit Tim Pallas said by allowing large businesses to trade on the Sunday, small businesses in Wyndham would be forced to open, stripping owners and workers of a day with their family.
“This draconian change will force Wyndham retail workers to work on on Easter Sunday and does not ensure that workers receive penalty rates,” Mr Pallas said.
“Under current laws, larger companies are closed on Easter Sunday which allows family businesses, such as those in Wyndham, the option to shut.”
But Minister for Small Businesses Louise Asher said by allowing all businesses to open on Easter Sunday, it would remove confusion.
“Any business that wishes to trade on Easter Sunday will now be legally able to do so and that business itself will make that choice, not the government,” Ms Asher said.
“This change provides absolute clarity and certainty for businesses and positions Victoria to generate millions of dollars in revenue from increased tourism and retail activity.”
Mr Pallas said he believes that people should be able to put their work aside and treat Easter Sunday as a religious holiday if they wish to.
“Labor believes that that retail workers should not be forced to work on Easter Sunday without receiving loading beyond ordinary Sunday rates,” he said.
