NSW Confirms Extra Public Holiday for Anzac Day Weekends in 2026, 2027

SYDNEY (Azat TV) – New South Wales residents are set to receive an additional public holiday in both 2026 and 2027, as Premier Chris Minns announced that an extra day off will be granted when Anzac Day falls on a weekend. The decision, confirmed on Saturday, February 14, 2026, initiates a two-year period during which the state government will review whether this arrangement should become a permanent fixture, aligning NSW more closely with other Australian states and territories.

The move comes as Anzac Day, observed annually on April 25, will fall on a Saturday in 2026 and a Sunday in 2027. Historically, NSW has not provided a substitute public holiday when Anzac Day occurs on a weekend, leaving its residents with fewer public holidays than most other mainland states.

NSW Anzac Day Public Holiday Change Announced

Premier Chris Minns stated that the additional public holiday, to be observed on the Monday following Anzac Day, would not diminish the solemnity or importance of the national commemoration. Instead, he suggested, it could serve as a further reminder of its significance, encouraging more people to attend local services and ensure the spirit of remembrance is passed down through generations. This sentiment was echoed by Vince Williams, Acting President of RSL NSW, who confirmed that the organization had been consulted and did not oppose the extra day off.

“RSL NSW’s primary concern is that the sanctity and significance of Anzac Day is protected, and we welcome Premier Minns’ assurance that Anzac Day itself will remain the focus of national commemoration, observed with the respect and reflection it deserves,” Williams noted. He also highlighted the benefit for serving Australian Defence Force personnel, who often work on Anzac Day, allowing them an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones on the Monday holiday.

Minns Government Reviewing Permanent Change

During the initial two-year period, the government will undertake a comprehensive review to assess the feasibility and impact of making this additional public holiday a permanent arrangement. This review will consider feedback from the community, various businesses, and veteran groups, as well as the broader economic and social implications of the change. On average, Anzac Day falls on a weekend twice every seven years, making this a recurring issue for holiday scheduling.

Prior to this announcement, NSW was scheduled to have 11 public holidays in 2026, which is fewer than Queensland, Victoria, and the ACT (all with 14), and significantly less than the Northern Territory and South Australia (both with 15). Tasmania also maintains 11 public holidays annually. This disparity has been a point of discussion, with the new policy bringing NSW in line with Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, which already shift the date of a public holiday to the following Monday if Anzac Day falls on a weekend.

Impact and Broader Context for NSW Residents

The decision marks a notable shift in NSW’s approach to public holidays, addressing concerns about the state having comparatively fewer days off. The aim is to balance the economic considerations with the social benefits of increased leisure time and the continued solemn observance of Anzac Day. The review process over the next two years will be crucial in determining the long-term future of this holiday schedule adjustment, ensuring that any permanent change is well-considered and broadly supported.

The introduction of an additional public holiday for Anzac Day weekends in NSW reflects an evolving governmental approach to public holiday scheduling, seeking to harmonize state practices while upholding the solemnity of national commemorations.