NSW announces extra Anzac Day public holiday for 2026 and 2027: Here’s how

The New South Wales government has confirmed that residents will receive an additional public holiday in both 2026 and 2027. The decision was announced by Premier Chris Minns, who said the Monday following Anzac Day will be declared a public holiday when the national day of remembrance falls on a weekend.

In 2026 and 2027, Anzac Day falls on a weekend, meaning commemorative services will still occur on April 25, while the additional public holiday will be observed the following Monday. The move aligns NSW more closely with Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, which already observe a substitute public holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend.

The government has framed the additional holiday as a trial designed to encourage wider participation in remembrance activities without disrupting traditional services. Premier Minns emphasised that the day would follow full civic participation on April 25, adding that the public holiday is intended to extend reflection rather than replace existing commemorations.


The trial will run for two years and is set to be reviewed in 2032, the next time Anzac Day falls on a weekend. This long-term review timeline suggests the policy is being positioned as a potential permanent reform if outcomes are positive.

Veterans’ representatives and government officials say the additional day could offer practical benefits for service members and their families. NSW Minister for Veterans David Harris expressed hope that the change would give the community more time to reflect and participate, especially for those unable to attend events on the day itself due to work commitments.

RSL NSW acting president Vince Williams also suggested the extra day could help local veterans reconnect. Feedback from smaller RSL organisations indicated the Monday holiday might create opportunities for gatherings that are otherwise difficult on the busy national day.

Despite strong support from veterans’ groups, the announcement has generated mixed reactions among businesses. The premier acknowledged concerns, particularly from small businesses, about the cost of an additional public holiday.

Public holidays can increase labour costs and disrupt trading hours, making the change a financial burden for some sectors. However, the government argues the social and commemorative benefits justify the trial.

The decision also addresses a longstanding disparity in public holidays across Australia. New South Wales currently has only 11 public holidays, fewer than South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, Victoria and the ACT, which typically observe between 14 and 15 annually.

The new public holiday will take effect in April 2026 and again in 2027, with the government monitoring public participation, economic impacts and community response.