SYDNEY – In a move that brings New South Wales closer to several other Australian states, Premier Chris Minns has officially confirmed that residents will receive an additional public holiday in both 2026 and 2027. The decision, announced on Sunday, February 15, 2026, ensures that when Anzac Day falls on a weekend, a substitute public holiday will be observed on the following Monday.+1
The change marks a significant shift in the state’s holiday calendar, designed to balance the solemnity of the national day of remembrance with the practical needs of modern families and veterans.
Key Dates for the 2026-2027 Trial
Under the new arrangement, the traditional commemorative services will remain strictly fixed to April 25. The additional public holiday is intended to complement, rather than replace, the day of service.+1
| Year | Anzac Day (Actual) | Public Holiday Status |
| 2026 | Saturday, April 25 | Public Holiday (Monday, April 27) |
| 2027 | Sunday, April 25 | Public Holiday (Monday, April 26) |
“Anzac Day is not simply a date on the calendar; it is a living tradition,” Premier Minns stated during the announcement. “The public holiday is intended to extend reflection rather than replace existing commemorations.”
Closing the “Holiday Gap”
For years, NSW has lagged behind other mainland states in the total number of annual public holidays. Prior to this announcement, NSW typically observed 11 public holidays per year, whereas states like South Australia and the Northern Territory enjoy up to 15.+1
By introducing the Monday substitute, NSW aligns its policy with Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), both of which have long provided an additional day off when Anzac Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday.
Impact on Veterans and the Community
The move has received strong backing from veterans’ organizations. RSL NSW acting president Vince Williams noted that the extra day provides a necessary buffer for those who participate in dawn services and marches.
- Participation: Allows families to attend local services without the pressure of returning to work immediately.
- ADF Support: Offers serving Australian Defence Force personnel—many of whom work through the weekend of commemorations—a chance to spend time with loved ones.
- Social Connection: Smaller RSL sub-branches have indicated that a Monday holiday creates a window for veterans to reconnect in a less hurried environment.
Economic Considerations and Mixed Reactions
While the social benefits have been widely praised, the business sector remains divided. Small business owners, in particular, have raised concerns regarding:
- Increased Labour Costs: The requirement to pay penalty rates on the additional Monday holiday.
- Trading Disruptions: Potential loss of revenue for sectors that may choose to close rather than pay higher wages.
Premier Minns acknowledged these “additional burdens” but argued that the social and commemorative benefits to the state’s residents justify the two-year trial.
Looking Ahead: The 2032 Review
This new policy is currently framed as a trial. The NSW Government plans to monitor public participation and economic impact closely over the next two years. A formal review of the state’s broader public holiday framework is scheduled for 2027, but the specific weekend-Anzac arrangement will be permanently evaluated in 2032—the next time the holiday falls on a weekend.+1
For now, the people of NSW can look forward to a guaranteed long weekend to honor the legacy of the Anzacs, starting this April.
Would you like me to create a table comparing the 2026 public holidays for all Australian states so you can plan your travel?
