On 25 April every year, Australia marks Anzac Day with a public holiday.
The national day of remembrance features several traditions, including dawn and sunset services, wreath-laying ceremonies, veteran marches, and the game of two-up.
Being a public holiday also means there are different rules around shops’ trading hours than a regular day.
Here’s what’s open on Anzac Day this year, and when.
When can shops open on Anzac Day?
Each state and territory sets their own rules around trading hours on Anzac Day.
NSW: Most shops, including major supermarkets and department stores, aren’t allowed to open until 1pm. There are some exceptions, such as pharmacies, service stations, and small shops.
Victoria: Similarly to NSW, most stores have to remain shut until at least 1pm, with exceptions to the rule also including pharmacies, service stations, and small shops.
Queensland: Most large shops, such as major supermarkets and department stores, will be closed all day. Beyond pharmacies and service stations, stores exempt from the rules include bookshops, florists, and toy shops.
Western Australia: Stores in Perth must close all day, unless they’re considered a small or special retail shop, service station, or motor vehicle shops.
South Australia: Large shops like major supermarkets and department stores are only allowed to open from 12pm to 5pm if they’re in the Adelaide CBD. In other parts of the state, they must remain shut. Exceptions include pharmacies, service stations, pet shops, and plant nurseries, to name a few.
Tasmania: Most large stores aren’t allowed to open before 12.30pm. Like most other states, exceptions include pharmacies, service stations, and small shops.
ACT: There are no restrictions on retail trading hours.
Northern Territory: There are no restrictions on retail trading hours.
When can you buy alcohol on Anzac Day?
The time you’re allowed to buy alcohol on Anzac Day also differs depending on which state or territory you’re in.
NSW: Licensed venues can sell alcohol during their usual trading hours, but bottle shops must remain closed until 1pm.
Victoria: Bottle shops and licensed venues can sell alcohol from 12pm.
Queensland: Between 10am and 1pm, licensed venues can sell or supply alcohol, but only if it’s accompanied by a meal. After 1pm, normal trading rules apply.
Western Australia: Bottle shops and licensed venues can sell alcohol from 12pm.
South Australia: There are no Anzac Day-specific alcohol restrictions.
Tasmania: Between 10am and 1pm, licensed venues can sell or supply alcohol, but only if it’s accompanied by a meal. After 1pm, normal trading rules apply.
ACT: Like SA, there are no Anzac Day-specific alcohol restrictions.
Northern Territory: Licensed venues can serve alcohol during their normal trading hours.
