NSW had the highest retail sales growth

NSW Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian today welcomed figures confirming that NSW had the highest retail sales growth of the mainland states in October.

Today’s ABS figures show retail trade in NSW was up by 0.8 per cent in October, above the national average of 0.5 per cent.

“Since the beginning of the year, retail sales have risen by 5.3 per cent compared to a year ago – the highest result among the states,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This is a great sign that our economy is strong and that retailers can expect a bumper Christmas to cap off a great 2015.”

Retail trade growth through the year has remained above the national average in NSW for a 27th consecutive month.

“This has been a positive year for retail trade in NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This is also the first time all stores across the State won’t be held back by out-of-date restrictions on Boxing Day.”

Last month, the NSW Government’s historic legislation to give retailers the freedom to choose to trade on December 26 passed NSW Parliament.

Under the legislation, no employee can be forced to work and no shop can be forced to open.