The Liberal Party believes the two regulated supermarkets in Millicent should be allowed to trade on six of the public holidays.

Under legislation dating back decades, Woolworths and Foster’s Foodland cannot trade at certain times including all public holidays because Millicent remains one of the few Proclaimed Shopping Districts remaining in South Australia.

Shadow Treasurer Matt Cowdrey said the Opposition is not in favour of full deregulation of shopping hours in SA.

“However, there needs to be a sensible balance when it comes to retail trading on public holidays,” Mr Cowdrey said.

“South Australia should be evolving with the times when it comes shopping hours, but Premier Peter Malinauskas is sucking the life out of our economy.

“While we do not think all stores should be open right around the clock, there needs to be a sensible compromise and we believe opening on public holidays – except for Anzac Day, Good Friday, Easter Da, and Christmas Day – should be left up to personal choice.

“It’s time to step into the future with a modern approach that supports SA businesses and benefits customers.”