All Shops in NSW to Close in Observance of Anzac Day

The New South Wales (NSW) government has now enforced trading restrictions for the entire day on Anzac Day.

Anzac Day is observed on April 25 every year and honors the first campaign in World War I where Australian and New Zealand forces suffered significant casualties. It has evolved into a day of remembrance for service members, including animals.

Prior to this change, trading restrictions under the Retail Trading Act ceased at 1 p.m., allowing businesses to resume operations.

Exceptions to these restrictions apply to small businesses, entities not classified as retailers, or establishments with exemptions like markets, cafes, chemists, newsagencies, and takeaway restaurants.

These exempted businesses will remain open throughout the day.

RSL NSW president Mick Bainbridge praised the decision, noting that it would enable veterans and their families to attend commemorations together.

“It’s a significant step in preserving the solemnity of Anzac Day, our most important day for veterans,” he remarked.

“Too often, the pastoral needs of veterans, along with their friends and families, are overlooked. This gives them the opportunity to take time off work on this special day to honor their service.

“I appreciate the backing of the premier, his administration, and the SDA Union in ensuring that Anzac Day, a key day for veterans, is observed.”

NSW branch secretary Bernie Smith added, “It’s not much to ask for retail employees to forgo half a day of penalty rates, or for the community to abstain from shopping for half a day, considering the sacrifices veterans have made for each of us.”

A review of Anzac Day trading restrictions commenced last year, with a consultative period that ran from September to October.

According to the NSW government, the majority of submissions supported full-day restrictions, with endorsements from veterans, veterans’ groups, and the general public.

Due to the day’s significance, most Australian states impose Anzac Day trading restrictions to enable workers and businesses to engage in commemorative events and pay their respects.

NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasized the solemnity of the day for Australians.

“Beginning next year, New South Wales will extend our retail trading restrictions on Anzac Day to ensure our veterans are acknowledged and able to participate in activities throughout the day,” he stated.

“It may cause inconvenience for a few hours, but shutting down our largest retail outlets for a single day is a minor price to pay for living in a free and open democracy.”

However, the nation’s primary retail association argued that this adjustment would negatively affect workers unnecessarily, while also hindering access to food shopping in rural and remote areas.

“Altering this legislation won’t alter the way Australians unite on this important day,” stated Australian Retailers Association chief Paul Zahra.

“Many workers rely on public holiday rates to make ends meet during this extremely challenging economic period.”