Both Leeton, which hosts a Target Country, and Griffith are home to the retail giant. 

Target representatives refused comment when asked about the future of MIA stores. A spokeswoman said any changes to the store’s network would be communicated “well in advance”.

“It is business as usual for Target, and all stakeholders will be communicated with well in advance of any planned change to Target’s store network,” she said.

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“We look forward to continuing our relationship with the communities where we operate and remain committed to providing our customers fashion that excites and quality that endures.”

As always, and with great respect, our team members will be communicated with first if there are any planned changes to our stores.”

News of the downsize comes months after the MIA’s only Big W store announced it would be closing its doors after 40 years of operation. 

​Wesfarmers' CEO of department stores, Guy Russo said Target was looking to shed around a dozen stores over the next five years by closing under-performing stores when their leases expire. The move is part of a network-wide rebrand.

Leeton Chamber of Commerce Secretary Rhonda McCormick said the shire takes a hit when any business closes. 

“All businesses are important to a country town. You don’t want any business to close up. The less businesses you have, the less people come to town to shop,” she said. 

“It’s less choice for shoppers, more people could go out of town to spend money.” 

She also called on Leeton Shire residents to support the region’s economy by shopping local. 

“If you want towns like Leeton to survive and be prosperous, we’ve got to start supporting our businesses. It’s all about jobs, it’s all about keeping our rural communities going,” she said. 

“We have to spend money in town to make sure the town thrives. It has a flow-on effect.”