Millions of residents in New South Wales will enjoy an additional day off work in the coming years, following the announcement by Premier Chris Minns of a new public holiday. The decision, revealed on Sunday, will see the Monday after Anzac Day designated as a public holiday in 2026 and 2027. This move is expected to bolster participation in Anzac Day commemorations across the state.
Currently, Anzac Day remembrance services are scheduled nationwide on Saturday, April 25. However, only Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) observe a public holiday on the following Monday. The introduction of this holiday in New South Wales aims to align the state with these regions, encouraging greater civic engagement.
Mixed Reactions from the Business Community
While the announcement has been met with enthusiasm by many, Premier Minns acknowledged that not all business groups support the change. “We’ve also spoken with business,” he stated. “Not all business groups are supportive of this change [and] I think it’s important that we recognise that.”
The Premier highlighted the potential burden on small businesses but emphasized the importance of the holiday for the state. “We know that it’s somewhat of an additional burden for small businesses in particular, but this is, we believe, an important thing to do for the state,” he added.
Trial and Review
The introduction of the public holiday will be trialed for two years, with a review scheduled for 2032, the next time Anzac Day falls on a weekend. This trial period will allow the government to assess the impact of the holiday on businesses and the community.
Importantly, Mr. Minns assured that Anzac Day services would remain unaffected, and the traditional game of two-up would continue to be legal only on April 25 and Remembrance Day, November 11.
Community and Veteran Perspectives
Acting President of RSL NSW, Vince Williams, expressed support for the additional holiday, clarifying that it does not intend to undermine the service and sacrifice of Anzacs. “Whereas on Anzac Day, they get spread right across the state with all visiting their association or their former unit, but not necessarily with their local colleagues or vice versa,” he explained.
NSW Minister for Veterans David Harris echoed these sentiments, noting the holiday’s potential to provide servicemen and women with more time for personal reflection. “It particularly gives extra time for servicemen and women who work on Anzac Day to spend time with their families and join in their own, personal remembrance,” Harris told the ABC.
Comparative Context and Historical Significance
New South Wales currently observes 11 public holidays, the fewest of any Australian state. In comparison, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, Victoria, and the ACT enjoy between 14 and 15 public holidays annually. The addition of this holiday aims to bring New South Wales closer in line with other states and territories.
The announcement comes at a time when public holidays are increasingly seen as opportunities for reflection and community engagement. By aligning New South Wales with regions that already observe the post-Anzac Day holiday, the government hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of Anzac Day.
As the trial period approaches, the government will continue to engage with businesses and community groups to ensure the holiday’s success. The move represents a significant shift in how New South Wales honors its veterans and commemorates Anzac Day, with potential long-term implications for public holiday policies across Australia.
