How employers can respond to additional public holiday for Anzac Day

While many Australian employees look forward to public holiday penalty rates, the government has acknowledged the financial impact this will have on small businesses.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has confirmed a public holiday will be recognised for Anzac Day, despite the 25 April falling on a Saturday this year. In 2027, when Anzac Day falls on a Sunday, a similar arrangement will apply.

Responses from business owners were mixed; however, the state government acknowledged the pressure of staff costs and operational planning, describing the impact as “somewhat of an additional burden for small businesses”.

Peninsula Australia director of operations Laurence McLean said: “For small businesses operating on tight margins, an additional public holiday immediately after a weekend, particularly where the Saturday prior is already a public holiday, in this case Anzac Day on 25 April, can influence staffing decisions and operational planning.”

Peninsula highlighted the impacts small businesses are expected to feel: wage adjustments, last-minute rostering and scheduling issues, reduced trading capacity should the business not operate, and increased HR and staffing considerations, particularly in weekend-reliant industries such as hospitality and retail.

On an employment level, McLean highlighted the importance of early preparation.

“Being proactive about planning allows small businesses to manage the change with greater confidence,” he said.

“Reviewing award classifications, communicating with staff early, and understanding cost implications can help minimise disruption.”

McLean also stressed the importance of “ensuring compliance with the Fair Work Act” as a key consideration, and one that will help employers prepare effectively for the day.

Under the Public Holidays Act 2010, Anzac Day always falls on 25 April, as a marked day of national commemoration. According to the Minns government, the additional public holiday reinforces the importance of Anzac Day to the country by providing a dedicated time to gather and reflect.

It was also noted that NSW currently has fewer public holidays than all other mainland states and territories. Prior to the announcement, NSW and Tasmania had 11 public holidays this year, while South Australia and the Northern Territory had 15, and Queensland, Victoria, and the ACT had 14.

The Minns government also announced a larger review of NSW public holidays, set to commence next year. This will consider the current number of state-wide public holidays, whether an additional day should be authorised to bring it closer to other state numbers, and if the Anzac Day public holiday will always be a three-day weekend, irrespective of when the 25th falls.

According to the statement, the review will be informed by community, business, and veteran groups and consider the economic and social impacts of the already confirmed public holiday for 2026 and 2027.

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said: “This review will look at whether the balance is right for workers, families and businesses, and whether there is a case for change going forward.”