ANZAC Day public holidays in NSW — date, commemorations and practical info

Why ANZAC Day public holidays in NSW matter

ANZAC Day, observed on 25 April each year, is one of Australia’s most significant days of national remembrance. In New South Wales the day is marked as a public holiday, and its observance affects community services, schooling, business trading and transport. Understanding how the ANZAC Day public holiday operates in NSW helps residents, employers and visitors plan attendance at commemorative events and manage practical arrangements such as travel and work entitlements.

Main details and practical information

Date and core observances

ANZAC Day falls on 25 April annually. Commemorative activities typically include dawn services, wreath-laying ceremonies, and marches involving returned service personnel, veterans and community groups. Major centres across NSW, including Sydney, Newcastle and regional towns, host official services and public events.

Public holiday effects on services and businesses

As a public holiday in NSW, many government offices and services operate on reduced hours or close for the day. Schools and some public institutions may be closed or run limited programs. Retail trading and hospitality are affected by local trading rules and business decisions; some stores and restaurants open with altered hours while others remain closed. Public transport commonly runs to a holiday timetable, and motorists should expect road closures and parking restrictions around service locations.

Employment and legal considerations

Employees working on ANZAC Day should check the terms of their award, enterprise agreement or employment contract for penalty rates and public holiday entitlements. Employers and staff can refer to the Fair Work Ombudsman and NSW government resources for up-to-date information on pay, rostering and leave entitlements linked to public holidays.

Conclusion: planning and respectful observance

For residents and visitors in NSW, ANZAC Day public holidays require a small amount of forward planning: confirm event times, check public transport timetables and verify business hours ahead of 25 April. Observing ANZAC Day respectfully—by attending dawn services or local commemorations or by following official guidance—helps maintain the significance of the day while minimising disruption to everyday activities. For definitive details on closures, trading hours and legal entitlements, consult NSW government pages and the Fair Work Ombudsman prior to the public holiday.