The state government says Hunter retailers will face a hefty fine if they force their staff to work on Boxing Day.
Legislation to allow shops to open on December 26 across NSW was passed in state parliament late last night.
It follows a two year trial in the Hunter.
The Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association maintains there is no economic benefit to Boxing Day trading and workers should be free to enjoy the Christmas holidays with their families.
However, Premier Gladys Berejiklian says community feedback has shown overwhelming support for Boxing Day trading and only a handful of complaints.
Parliamentary Secretary For The Hunter, Scot MacDonald says safeguards have been included to ensure workers are not coerced into working on the traditional public holiday.
"(There are) fines of up to $11,000 for forcing any staff to work on Boxing Day and for large shopping areas that seem to force shops to open in their centres, fines of up to $22,000. We're also having the Industrial Relations Commission do an education campaign so that staff are aware that it is voluntary," he said.
