Full Breakdown
New South Wales Considers Additional Public Holiday for Anzac Day
1/29/2026, 8:57:19 AM
Proposal for a Long Weekend
The New South Wales (NSW) government is contemplating the introduction of an additional public holiday to create a long weekend for Anzac Day, which falls on a Saturday in 2026 and a Sunday in 2027. Premier Chris Minns announced on Thursday that discussions are underway to align NSW with Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), both of which provide an extra public holiday on the following Monday when Anzac Day occurs on a weekend. Minns emphasized that NSW is "underserved when it comes to public holidays," noting that the state has fewer holidays compared to others.
Context of the Discussion
Anzac Day, observed on April 25, is a significant national day of remembrance in Australia, honoring those who served and died in military conflicts. Currently, only Western Australia and the ACT offer an additional day off for Anzac Day when it falls on a weekend. Other states, including Queensland, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, provide a substitute day only when Anzac Day falls on a Sunday. In contrast, Victoria and Tasmania do not offer a substitute weekday public holiday for Anzac Day.
Consultation with Stakeholders
Premier Minns stated that he plans to consult with the Returned and Services League (RSL) to ensure that any new holiday does not detract from the significance of the actual Anzac Day. He expressed the need for confidence that a Monday holiday would not diminish the importance of April 25. "It's got to be the 25th that's hugely important," he remarked during an interview on Triple M radio.
Criticism and Opposition
While the proposal is gaining traction, there are concerns regarding its implementation. Critics may argue that adding another public holiday could impact businesses and the economy, particularly in sectors that rely on consistent operational hours. However, Minns has indicated that the decision will be made with careful consideration of the views of veterans and the broader community.
Official Statements
In his remarks, Minns highlighted the need for a conversation about the potential holiday, stating, "We’re going to have a conversation about it for this year." He acknowledged the respect Australians have for Anzac Day, referring to it as "our national day" and emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have served.
What's Next
As discussions progress, the NSW government will engage with various stakeholders, including veterans' groups and business organizations, to gauge support and address any concerns regarding the proposed public holiday. The outcome of these talks will determine whether NSW residents will enjoy an additional day off in 2026 and 2027, aligning the state with the practices of Western Australia and the ACT.
