A wide selection of Australian retailers will again be offering special discounts to front line workers tomorrow, to celebrate the second annual First Responders Day.
The initiative was launched in 2020 by the Australian Retailers Association, to recognise and celebrate the vital role first responders have played throughout the bushfires, the pandemic and the recent devastating storms and floods in Victoria.
There are over 100 retailers involved in this year's First Responders Day including David Jones, Myer, The Iconic, Rebel, H&M, Michael Hill, Sportsgirl, Ray-Ban, Camilla, Cue, The Good Guys, Adairs, Costco Wholesale and Supercheap Auto.
ARA chief industry affairs officer Fleur Brown said the organisation is proud the retail community can come together to recognise the efforts of Australia's first responders.
"Unfortunately, emergency responses have become a way of life for Australia as we continue to battle the COVID pandemic, alongside bushfires and floods which have ravaged our towns and communities.
"Our First Responders are always there in times of crisis, bravely keeping us safe and we owe them an enormous debt of gratitude," she said.
Brown added that following the success of the initiative in 2020, First Responders Day has become a fixed part of the retail calendar.
"Last year’s event was a huge success.
"We held the first First Responders Day mid-pandemic in 2020 and we’re delighted to confirm this as a permanent part of Australia’s annual retail calendar.
"We’ve had a huge response from retailers with thousands of stores across the country making unique offers available for first responders," she said.
Brands involved in the day will offer 10, 20 or 30% off to first responders including medical and health workers such as doctors, nurses and paramedics, as well as ambulance staff, police personnel, firefighters, defence, border force personnel, SES, lifesavers and quarantine workers.
First responders can access discounts by showing a photo ID which shows their work identity.
Alternatively, they can shop in their work uniform.
St John Ambulance Australia CEO Len Fiori welcomed the initiative.
"This initiative recognises the extraordinary dedication, passion, and commitment of all our first responders who spend every day helping others.
"The past year has been one of the most challenging in our history and our first responders have stepped forward each time we have needed them.
"It is incredibly encouraging to see so many Australian retailers and the wider community celebrate first responders and the work they do," he said.
First Responders Day will be held tomorrow, June 24.
A full list of participating retail brands and eligible first responders are available on the ARA website.