All Victorians deserve congratulations for bringing the state’s second wave of COVID-19 to heel.
After months of lockdown restrictions, they will naturally welcome the opportunity to start shopping again, especially with the festive season around the corner.
Months of pent up demand will add to the pressures and opportunities of Christmas shopping.
This will be a challenge for shoppers, retailers and retail workers alike. There will be frustration as shoppers seek products they have not been able to buy for months.
Have patience, respect the retail workers who are there to help you.
Shoppers must obey the health and safety measures introduced on the advice of the health authorities, for their own welfare, that of retail workers and for the benefit of the Victorian economy.
No one wants another lockdown.
Shopping centres attract the community in their droves. They will be particularly vulnerable to community transmission of COVID-19 unless shoppers adhere to the social distancing measures advised by health authorities and endorsed by the SDA as well as shopping centre operators.
As Wesfarmers CEO Rob Scott put it: “Show courtesy to our hardworking team members as we work through this transition together.”
Past years have seen a seasonal increase in abuse of retail workers over the pre-Christmas period.
Victorian consumers have shown extraordinary restraint and discipline throughout the lockdown.
Let us now show respect for the health and safety of retail workers as we enjoy the opportunities afforded as Victoria returns to COVID-normal.
Restraint and respect will be essential if we are to have the festive season we all want.