5 Nov: Myer’s ban on workers enjoying Christmas parties in December is adding insult to injury for workers at the department store, many of who are also going to be forced to work on Christmas as a result of the NSW Government’s decision to allow stores to open on Boxing Day.

SDA – the union for retail, fast-food and warehouse workers – NSW Secretary, Bernie Smith, said the combination of the NSW Government’s ridiculous legislation which allows workers to be forced to work on Boxing Day, and employers’ Grinch-like approach to Christmas means many NSW workers are being robbed of the joy of the festive season.

“Workers are having the festive joy sucked out of them from every angle – the Berejiklian Government is depriving retail workers of Christmas time with family and friends and Myer is depriving workers of Christmas celebrations with workmates,” Mr Smith said.

“It seems our politicians and our employers have forgotten the true meaning of Christmas.

“It’s sad, but no real surprise that Myer has made this decision to force workers to wait until January to celebrate Christmas – there’s been a growing trend from employers and government to rob workers of Christmas for a while now.

“By allowing stores to open on Boxing Day, which robs many NSW families of the right to spend Christmas together, the NSW Government has set the scene for employers like Myer to also unleash their inner Grinch.

“Not only should Myer rethink its decision to rob workers of a simple festive celebration, but the NSW Government should also rethink its decision to allow stores to open on Boxing Day.

“The lead up to Christmas is the busiest time of the year for retail workers. That’s not a reason to rob them of Christmas festivities altogether – it’s even more of a reason to allow them to celebrate with family, friends and colleagues.

“The NSW Government should reverse its Grinch-like legislation which allows stores to open on Boxing Day, and return Christmas to NSW families, and Myer should rethink it’s ridiculous Christmas party ban.”

“Retail workers deserve some festive cheer, just like everyone else.”