Grand Final eve public holiday to stay, says Small Business Minister Philip Dalidakis

THE Grand Final eve public holiday is here to stay, despite the estimated $1.2 billion cost to ­businesses, Small Business and Trade Minister Philip Dalidakis has confirmed.

Small Business Minister Philip Dalidakis. Picture: Mike Dugdale

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THE Minister for Small Business and Trade, Philip Dalidakis, has confirmed the Grand Final eve public holiday is here to stay, despite the estimated $1.2 billion cost to ­businesses.

Mr Dalidakis said Victorians were some of the hardest working people in the world and should celebrate the opportunity to “take time out”.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY: WHAT’S OPEN ON GRAND FINAL EVE?

Mr Dalidakis said it was up to business owners to decide whether they stayed open and there was “nothing stopping them” if they chose to do so.

“We’ve created no barriers for them to be able to open their doors and to open their business,” he said.

“This day was created to allow people to spend time ­together.

“They’re not created as an economic stimulus.”

Mr Dalidakis said it was not for him to debate the figures associated with the newest public holiday, which the Australian Industry Group said were “beyond reasonable”.

Premier Daniel Andrews also dismissed calls to ditch the public holiday and said if it were moved to the Monday, it could too easily become a four-day long weekend.

Western Bulldogs fans gather for the Grand Final parade last year.