The state government’s solution to Perth’s dying retail strips: small change.

Small Business Minister Paul Papalia has announced a campaign encouraging shoppers to spend their money at WA's ailing small businesses, but it was described by the opposition as a "pathetic" effort.

"If people are doing it tough right now I just encourage them to keep going, hang in there and we'll do what we can to make it work" Mr Papalia said.

The state government called on people to support small businesses.

“I encourage every Western Australian to support their local small businesses by making a small change to their routines and shopping habits and choosing a local small business not just for this week, but every week of the year.