Melbourne's retail heart must keep beating
5 November 2026
The Committee for Melbourne says the decision to place iconic retailer David Jones into voluntary administration is a stark reminder of the challenging conditions faced by the retail sector.
The David Jones store, formerly Buckley & Nunn, is historically significant as the site of Melbourne's longest continuously operating retail establishment.
Victoria already carries the reputation as being the worst state to do business, and the potential closure of this scale would have significant implications for the current and future workforce, as well as tourism and the ongoing success of Melbourne's retailers.
The city is the engine room of Victoria’s economy, which relies on a thriving retail sector. As we approach a State Election, we must ensure there is a laser focus on shaping a future Melbourne where the conditions encourage enterprise and investment to create a globally competitive city.
Victoria’s current settings are discouraging investment and making it harder for businesses to grow, employ people and compete. As part of our election platform, we have called for a dedicated regulatory reform working group with business representation, an independent review of Victoria’s finances and debt position, and a credible pathway to reducing the business tax burden.
To be attributed to Committee for Melbourne Chief Executive Cath Evans:
“It is a sad day when the future of such an iconic Melbourne store is now in doubt.”
“The Bourke Street store is more than a retailer. It is part of the fabric of Melbourne and has helped make Bourke Street Mall one of the city’s great destinations for generations. We sincerely hope the store can remain open and continue to be at the heart of Melbourne’s retail precinct.”
“This should also serve as a wake-up call. A thriving city needs a thriving retail sector. When major retailers struggle, the implications extend well beyond the shopfront to tourism, hospitality, city workers, residents and Melbourne’s broader attractiveness as a destination.”
Media contact: Gail Watson or Rebecca Chin, [email protected], 0423 883 945