Anzac day trading restrictions: supermarkets and shops shut across australia
- Retailers face new restrictions as states implement anzac day trading curfews
- Nsw leads the charge, prioritizing remembrance
- Beyond supermarkets: liquor stores also affected
- States offer varying levels of flexibility
- Queensland and western australia: a mixed approach
- A day of remembrance – business as usual elsewhere
- Key takeaway: respect and remembrance
Across Australia, Anzac Day will see a significant shift in retail operations, with many major supermarkets and department stores closing their doors to honor the solemn occasion.
Retailers face new restrictions as states implement anzac day trading curfews
New legislation, including the Retail Trading Amendment (ANZAC Day Trading Hours) Act 2024 (NSW) and similar measures in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania, mandates closures for businesses on Saturday, April 26th. The aim is to prioritize remembrance and provide space for public reflection.
Nsw leads the charge, prioritizing remembrance
New South Wales is taking the lead, implementing stricter restrictions than other states. Coles, Woolworths and Bunnings will be closed statewide, a deliberate move by the state government to combat what they describe as the ‘creeping commercialisation’ of Anzac Day. David Harris, the state minister for veterans, emphasized the importance of allowing workers and businesses to participate in commemorative services. He stated, ‘Restricting trading on Anzac Day will allow workers and businesses to pay their respects to those who have served and sacrificed protecting our country and helps ensure the sanctity of remembrance is given the status it deserves.’
Beyond supermarkets: liquor stores also affected
The restrictions extend beyond supermarkets, impacting popular liquor stores such as Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland and Vintage Cellars. This coordinated approach reflects a broader commitment to upholding the day’s significance.
States offer varying levels of flexibility
While NSW is imposing a strict closure, other states are adopting a more nuanced approach. Victoria will see Coles stores shuttered until 1pm, while Woolworths will operate with reduced hours, adhering to both the Shop Trading Reform Act 1996 (VIC) and the Anzac Day Act 1958 (VIC). Cinemas and live entertainment venues face late start times – all events must now begin after 1pm. However, smaller convenience stores, takeaway outlets, cafes, petrol stations and chemists remain permitted to trade throughout the day.
Queensland and western australia: a mixed approach
Queensland mirrors the NSW model, with Coles and the majority of Woolworths closed. Smaller food vendors, including independent grocers and takeaway stores, can operate, albeit subject to restrictions. Western Australia presents a more varied picture, with most Woolworths closed, but Bunnings stores remaining open, alongside cafes and service stations. Chinatown districts in cities like Kununurra will continue to operate as usual.
A day of remembrance – business as usual elsewhere
Meanwhile, businesses across the Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and Western Australia will operate as normal on Monday, April 27th, a public holiday in those regions. The financial markets and many industries will continue without interruption.
Key takeaway: respect and remembrance
Anzac Day 2024 underscores a growing recognition of the need to balance commercial activity with cultural and historical significance. The temporary closures reflect a collective effort to honor the sacrifices made by Australia’s veterans and ensure the day’s solemnity is maintained.