Which body primarily advocates for improved wages and working conditions for retail workers?

The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) plays a crucial role in advocating for improved wages and working conditions for retail workers. This organization is a trade union specifically representing workers in the retail, fast food, and warehouse sectors. By engaging in collective bargaining, the SDA strives to negotiate better pay, benefits, and working conditions on behalf of its members. They also provide support and resources related to workplace rights and safety, ensuring that the voices of retail workers are heard in discussions about labor policies and industry standards.

While the government sets regulations and policies that can influence wages and working conditions, the SDA is directly focused on the interests and needs of retail workers, allowing it to be more effective in advocating for specific improvements tailored to this workforce. Safe Work Australia is primarily involved in setting nationally consistent work health and safety policies and regulations rather than directly advocating for wage increases. Local businesses, meanwhile, operate within the framework of the regulations and agreements negotiated largely through organizations like the SDA.