NSW Government to review Anzac Day trading hours for retailers
- Most retailers cannot open until 1 p.m. on April 25
- NSW Government seeks feedback
Retail stores in NSW could soon open all day on Anzac Day after the state government announced a review of trading laws.
Under the current Retail Act 2008, traders such as supermarkets, fashion stores and other retailers cannot open their doors on Anzac Day each year until 1 p.m. -noon.
Pharmacies, gas stations, markets, cafes and takeaway restaurants are exempt from this rule.
The state Labor government held a review of retail laws on April 25 and is seeking to hear community and stakeholder views on whether restrictions should be eased.
Shopping districts such as Sydney’s Pitt Street Mall (pictured) could soon be able to trade for longer each year on Anzac Day.
The NSW Government is seeking feedback on current Anzac Day trading restrictions for retailers. Photographed during the Anzac march in Sydney earlier this year
Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, at Gallipoli in 1915.
The day is marked by a number of traditions, including dawn and sunset services, veterans’ marches and wreath-laying ceremonies.
Business restrictions were enforced to allow workers and contractors to participate in and pay tribute to commemorative and community events.
Following a recent debate over the recognition of Anzac Day, Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis is seeking to hear from businesses, unions and RSLs on what they think about the change.
“We want to know whether retail workers and other parties would appreciate a greater opportunity to commemorate Anzac Day in NSW,” she said.
Regulations differ in other jurisdictions, with retailers open in the early afternoon in some states and closed all day in other states, while there are no restrictions in either territory.
Most retailers, like those at Pitt Street Mall, cannot open until 1 p.m. each year on Anazac Day.
