As Australia prepares to commemorate Anzac Day on Friday, April 25, 2025, significant changes to retail trading hours have been announced across the country, particularly in New South Wales. The government has mandated that major retailers and supermarkets remain closed for the entire day, a move aimed at reducing the commercialization of this solemn public holiday.
In New South Wales, thousands of stores including major supermarkets Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi will not open their doors at all on Anzac Day. Traditionally, these large retailers were required to close until 1 PM, but under new regulations introduced by the Minns government, they will remain shut until midnight. This decision is part of a broader initiative to combat what officials have termed the “creeping commercialization” of Anzac Day, which honors the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers.
While larger retailers will be closed, smaller businesses such as local coffee shops, newsagents, and chemists are exempt from these trading restrictions and will be allowed to operate throughout the day. This means that while many Australians may find it challenging to shop at their usual supermarkets, they can still access essential services from local providers.
In addition to supermarkets, bottle shops in New South Wales, including popular chains like BWS, Liquorland, First Choice Liquor Market, and Vintage Cellars, will also be closed for the entire day. However, petrol stations will remain open, providing an option for those needing fuel or convenience items.
In other states, trading hours will vary. For instance, in Victoria, Coles supermarkets will open at 1 PM, in line with state regulations that require most retailers to remain closed until then. In the Northern Territory, stores will open at noon, while those in the ACT and Tasmania will open at either 12:30 PM or 1 PM. Queensland, like New South Wales, will see supermarkets closed for the entire day.
Major retailer Kmart will also be closed in New South Wales, Western Australia, and Queensland, while it will open at 1 PM in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and the Northern Territory. In the ACT, Kmart will open its doors at 1:30 PM. Fast food outlets, including McDonald’s, are exempt from trading restrictions and will be open nationwide on Anzac Day.
In New Zealand, trading hours on Anzac Day are also restricted, with most businesses required to close until 1 PM. Under the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, only specific establishments such as dairies, service stations, and pharmacies are allowed to open during restricted hours. Cafes and bars can operate if they sell prepared food, but garden centers are prohibited from opening until after 1 PM.
For those in New Zealand looking to shop on Anzac Day, it’s important to note that some areas have their own exemptions, allowing certain shops to trade under specific conditions. For example, Queenstown can begin trading from noon, while towns like Tairua, Whangamatā, and Whitianga can operate if Anzac Day falls on a Monday or Friday.
As Australians gear up for the day of remembrance, they are reminded to plan their shopping accordingly. With many businesses closed, it’s advisable to stock up on essentials before Anzac Day. The aim is to prioritize reflection and commemoration, ensuring that the day remains a significant occasion to honor those who served.
In terms of banking, all four of Australia’s major banks will be closed on Anzac Day, and trading on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) will be halted. This means that some payments may not fully process on Friday, and transactions related to shares and foreign exchange will not be settled.
Additionally, hardware and home improvement stores, including IKEA and Bunnings, will have varying hours. In New South Wales and Queensland, all Bunnings Warehouses will be closed, while those in Victoria, Tasmania, and the ACT will operate from 1 PM to 7 PM. In Western Australia, most Bunnings stores will reopen at midday, with a few exceptions.
As the nation prepares to observe Anzac Day, the changes to trading hours reflect a significant shift in how Australians engage with this important day. The emphasis on respect and remembrance is clear in the restrictions placed on larger retailers, allowing communities to come together to honor the legacy of the ANZACs without the distractions of commercial activity.
In summary, as Australians commemorate Anzac Day, they will face new trading hour restrictions that prioritize reflection over commerce. The changes aim to ensure that the day remains a meaningful occasion for remembrance, allowing individuals to participate in various commemorative events and services.
