Under these exemptions, the CBD Tourism Precinct will be able to open until 6pm every Saturday between 15 February and 22 March.

These extended hours will ensure that CBD stores are able to take advantage of the significant tourism activity in the CBD around ‘Mad March’ and provide additional employment opportunities for workers during those periods.

Data from Adelaide Economic Development Agency shows extended shopping hours until 6pm on Saturdays during last year’s festival season helped increase visitation to Rundle Mall by 22 percent, compared to the 12 month average for Saturdays.

Meanwhile, spending in the city increased by 18 percent.

These extended hours were supported by both the Adelaide Economic Development Agency and the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association and are consistent with arrangements in previous years.

Workers cannot be required to work these extra hours unless they voluntarily agree.