Australian retailers are getting ready to hang out the open-for-business sign to welcome international travellers after news the Federal Government is likely to lift the ban on overseas flights sooner rather than later.
National Retail Association (NRA) CEO Dominique Lamb said NSW retailers were likely to benefit first from the news that international flights can resume earlier, with the state on course to hit vaccination targets first.
“Some of our regional areas in particular have been suffering badly with the loss of international tourism so this news will come as welcome relief for those who have been contemplating shutting their doors permanently,’’ Ms Lamb said.
“As businesses, we have needed to be flexible and work together to keep everyone safe. It’s great that the Government is being equally flexible by moving these dates forward as we work to get Australia vaccinated.
“It’s now up to all of us to get behind the campaign to reach those vaccination targets. National consistency on this will be critical so that no state is left behind as we do reopen those international borders.’’