Public supermarkets proposal

Where do you do most of your grocery shopping, and how much choice of supermarket is there near you?

The proposal would cost $25.1 billion over five years. Is a publicly owned supermarket chain a good use of that money compared with other ways of lowering grocery bills?

The Green Institute says public grocers would cut essential prices substantially; Master Grocers Australia says stronger competition law and easier planning rules for independents would do more. Which approach seems more likely to lower prices where you live?

The Green Institute claims about 30% off essentials and about 22% off an average shop. What costings or independent analysis would you want to see before judging those claims?

If you run an independent grocery store, how would a government-owned competitor affect your business?

The plan involves forcibly acquiring about 200 existing Coles and Woolworths stores. What legal and practical questions does compulsory acquisition of shops raise?

The ACCC's 2025 inquiry found large-scale entry by a new supermarket chain is unlikely in the short to medium term and that it took ALDI more than 20 years to reach about 9% of the market. What would a new entrant need to reach a 20% share, and how long might it take?

For farmers and suppliers: experts quoted by the ABC say supermarkets are consolidating supply chains and buying from fewer growers, which the major chains dispute. Would another large buyer help, or would the same pressures apply?

Polling cited by SBS found over 80% somewhat or strongly supported the idea (37% strongly), and respondents were not given costings. How much weight should polling like this carry in a policy debate?

The proposal draws on New York's plan for city-run grocery stores. Are there examples of publicly or community-owned stores, in Australia or overseas, that show what works and what does not?

The ACCC recommended considering support for community-owned stores in limited-choice areas, particularly remote areas. Would a public model make more sense in places with little competition than in big cities?

Which grocery items have risen most for your household lately, and has switching stores or brands made a difference?