The Anzac Day long weekend is approaching, and each Australian state and territory has its own set of trading restrictions for businesses and retailers. While essential services like petrol stations and chemists will remain open, many other shops will be closed during the annual commemorations.
New South Wales
New South Wales has introduced full-day trading restrictions for Anzac Day under new laws passed last year. Previously, businesses could reopen after 1pm. Now, supermarkets and bottle shops must remain closed all day. However, chemists, petrol stations, cafes, newsagencies, and other small shops are permitted to open. Monday's public holiday will operate like any other public holiday, with businesses free to set their own hours.
Victoria
In Victoria, shops must remain closed until 1pm on Anzac Day. This applies to supermarkets and bottle shops, but essential services such as chemists and petrol stations may open all day. Victoria does not have a separate public holiday on Monday.
Queensland
Major chains and retailers in Queensland will remain shut on Saturday, but smaller and independent stores can open from 1pm. Queensland does not have a separate public holiday on Monday.
South Australia
South Australia's restrictions differ slightly. Some larger retailers in Adelaide CBD and selected locations are exempt from closure rules and may open between 12pm and 5pm on Saturday. Smaller stores and essential services can remain open all day. South Australia does not have a separate public holiday on Monday.
Australian Capital Territory
The ACT observes both Anzac Day (Saturday, April 25) and Monday, April 27, as public holidays. However, trading hours are fully deregulated, meaning businesses can operate as usual without restrictions on both days.
Western Australia
Western Australia also observes both Anzac Day and Monday as public holidays. All major retailers must stay closed on Anzac Day, but Monday will function as a normal public holiday with hours at the business's discretion. Essential services like petrol stations, chemists, and small businesses such as cafes are allowed to remain open.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, major businesses and retailers are prohibited from opening before 12.30pm on Anzac Day. Essential services like petrol stations, chemists, and small businesses such as cafes may remain open. Tasmania does not have a separate public holiday on Monday.
Northern Territory
Similar to the ACT, businesses in the Northern Territory can operate without any restrictions on Anzac Day. The NT does not have a separate public holiday on Monday.
Major retailers such as Woolworths and Coles will face strict trading restrictions in most states and territories. Essential services like petrol stations and chemists will remain open in most areas.
