Only a limited number of Australians will enjoy an extended Anzac Day weekend this year.
As many begin to plan their getaways for 2026, a state premier has announced that discussions are underway to introduce a new public holiday, acknowledging that Anzac Day will fall on a Saturday this year.
While remembrance services will take place across the nation on April 25, only residents of Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory will benefit from an extra public holiday on the following Monday.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns shared his concerns during an interview with Triple M radio on Thursday, noting, “It’s not just this year, it’s next year too that we miss out on a day off.”
He further remarked, “New South Wales is lacking when it comes to public holidays; other states have more.”
“We’re going to discuss this issue for the current year,” Minns added.
Talks with the Returned and Services League (RSL) would be held to ensure the creation of a long weekend didn’t detract from the national day of remembrance.
“I’ve got to have confidence that it’s not going to — if we have a public holiday on the Monday — it doesn’t detract from the salience of the 25th,” Minns said.
“It’s got to be the 25th that’s hugely important.”
The Victorian government, which also doesn’t observe the Monday holiday, and business groups were contacted for comment.
Anzac Day is one of 10 public holidays recognised nationwide in 2026.
Most Australians get another three or four, including those in Victoria, Queensland, ACT and South Australia.
NSW observes two extra days: the King’s Birthday in June and Labour Day in October.
Christmas Island celebrates an extra six days, including two for Chinese New Year in mid-February.
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