Supermarkets and pharmacies in NSW have been given the green light to trade 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the near future.

Changes to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act will come into effect immediately, Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes announced.

“These orders cut red tape so we can move quickly and decisively to ensure the health, wellbeing and safety of our community during this time,” Mr Stokes said.

“The focus of our first order is giving people flexibility to visit their local supermarket, pharmacy or corner store at any time of day if those retail premises choose to operate for extended hours."