Full Breakdown
Anzac Day 2026: Trading Regulations Across Australia and New Zealand
4/23/2026, 5:13:56 AM
Overview of Anzac Day Significance
Anzac Day, observed annually on April 25, commemorates the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) troops who fought at Gallipoli in 1915. In 2026, Anzac Day falls on a Saturday, with additional public holidays observed on Monday, April 27, in New South Wales (NSW), the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and Western Australia (WA).
Trading Regulations in Australia
Trading restrictions on Anzac Day vary significantly across Australian states and territories, impacting when and which businesses can operate.
New South Wales
In NSW, the Retail Trading Amendment (ANZAC Day Trading Hours) Act 2024 prohibits non-exempt retail businesses from opening at any time on Anzac Day. Exempt businesses, including chemists, petrol stations, and cafes, may operate. The Monday following Anzac Day is not a restricted trading day, allowing all shops to open freely.
Victoria
Victoria enforces a half-day trading restriction, requiring most shops to remain closed until 1pm on Anzac Day. Exemptions apply to chemists, petrol stations, and cafes, which can open earlier. Certain entertainment venues and factories are also required to remain closed until after 1pm.
Queensland
In Queensland, trading hours depend on the shop's classification. Non-exempt shops must close until 1pm, while food-related businesses can operate without restrictions. An additional public holiday is only observed if Anzac Day falls on a Sunday.
South Australia
South Australia allows non-exempt shops in the Adelaide CBD and designated tourist areas to open from 12pm to 5pm on Anzac Day. Other areas may have stricter regulations, requiring many shops to remain closed.
Western Australia
General retail shops in WA must close on Anzac Day unless exempt. The additional public holiday on Monday allows for unrestricted trading hours.
Tasmania
Tasmania mandates that most retail businesses remain closed until 12:30pm on Anzac Day, with exemptions for cafes, pharmacies, and small businesses.
Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory
Both the ACT and Northern Territory have deregulated trading hours, allowing businesses to operate freely on Anzac Day without restrictions.
Official Statements & Responses
The Fair Work Ombudsman emphasizes that employees have the right to refuse work on public holidays unless the request is reasonable. Employers must also ensure compliance with public holiday pay rates.
Criticism & Opposition
Some critics argue that the varying regulations across states create confusion for consumers and businesses alike. The inconsistency in trading hours can lead to frustration among shoppers seeking essential goods on Anzac Day.
What's Next
As Anzac Day approaches, businesses are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local regulations to ensure compliance and avoid penalties for unauthorized trading. Additionally, public awareness campaigns may be initiated to clarify trading hours and restrictions.
Verbatim Quotes
“Anzac Day is one of Australia’s most significant public holidays, and it is observed every year on April 25.” — New Idea
“Employers may be fined if they do not comply.” — SmartCompany
This comprehensive overview of Anzac Day trading regulations highlights the diverse landscape of retail operations across Australia and New Zealand, ensuring that both consumers and businesses are informed as the holiday approaches.
