Currently, traders such as supermarkets and fashion retailers are required to stay closed until 1pm on Anzac Day under the Retail Trading Act 2008.
Certain businesses are automatically exempt from the rule, such as pharmacies, petrol stations, markets, cafes and takeaway restaurants.
There has been debate in recent times about whether Anzac Day is being appropriately recognised and what, if anything, should be done to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to take part in commemorations.
Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, landing in Gallipoli in 1915, and is one of Australia’s most important occasions.
The day is marked by a number of traditions, including dawn and sunset services, veteran marches, and wreath laying ceremonies.
Trading restrictions allow workers and business operators the opportunity to participate in commemorative and community events and pay their own respects.
Restrictions currently differ amongst Australian jurisdictions, with retail outlets open from early afternoon in some states (including NSW), closed all day in other states, while no restrictions are enforced in both territories.
The Government invites interested parties to share their views on the changes to trading hours on Anzac Day. This will help inform the government’s decision.
People and groups can upload a written submission through the NSW Government Have Your Say website or via email to anzacdayretailtrading@customerservice.nsw.gov.au.
The closing date for submissions is 5pm, 20 October 2023.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis said:
“I am looking forward to hearing from business groups, unions, RSLs and other stakeholders about how they feel about this potential change.
“We want to hear whether retail workers and other parties would appreciate a greater opportunity to commemorate Anzac Day in NSW.”
