NSW confirms extra Anzac Day public holiday for 2026 and 2027   
One state Premier has confirmed an extra public holiday this year and in 2027.


News.com.au
February 15, 2026

NSW will have an extra Monday public holiday for Anzac Day in 2026 and 2027, the Premier has announced.   

April 25 falls on the weekend this year and next, which has prompted the NSW government decision.

The Returned and Services League NSW says the “sanctity and significance” of April 25 must be protected, and the veteran’s group does not oppose the extra public holiday decision.

“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 central focus of national commemoration, observed with the respect and reflection it deserves,” RSL NSW acting president Vince Williams said.

“A public holiday on Monday will also provide many serving Australian Defence Force personnel who are required to work on Anzac Day itself with an opportunity to spend quality time with their loved ones.”

The Returned and Services League had been concerned an extra public holiday on the Monday following Anzac Day would detract for commemorations.

The move now gives NSW 12 public holidays this year. The NT and South Australia have 15, the ACT, Queensland and Victoria have 14, WA has 13 and Tasmania now lags with 11.

A quirk of NSW law has meant that unlike New Year’s Day, Christmas and Boxing Day, when Anzac Day is on a weekend the public holiday has not automatically been called for the following Monday. Other states already had this rule in place.

The state government will also begin a review of the public holiday regime next year.

Premier Chris Minns said this year and next year’s Monday Anzac Day public holiday should encourage more people to attend dawn services.

“Anzac Day on April 25 is one of the most important and solemn days on our national calendar, and that will not change,” Mr Minns said.

More than 10,000 serving and former defence force personnel typically march through Sydney on Anzac Day.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced the Monday after Anzac Day, which falls on a Saturday this year, will be a public holiday.

“Each year, thousands of families rise before dawn, gather at local memorials, march alongside veterans and reflect on the service and sacrifice that shaped our nation,” Mr Minns said.

“Adding a public holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend will not diminish that tradition.

“If anything, it is a reminder of its importance and another reason for people to get up, attend a local service and ensure the spirit of remembrance continues to be passed on to the next generation.”

The hospitality sector has previously raised concerns about covering wage bills and penalty on another public holiday.

Industrial Relation Minister Sophie Cotsis said NSW’s relative shortfall of public holidays would be analysed in next year’s review.

“Anzac Day continues to hold important cultural significance across the state as we honour those who served our nation,” she said.

“NSW has fewer public holidays than any other state or territory, and that’s something worth examining thoughtfully.

“This review will look at whether the balance is right for workers, families and businesses, and whether there is a case for change going forward.”