Millions of individuals in Australia might enjoy an additional day off from work next year, as hinted by the government. Anzac Day, falling on April 25, does not align with the workweek for the first time since 2020. This means that the majority of Australians may not have a day off; however, residents of New South Wales (NSW), home to iconic landmarks like Sydney Harbour and Bondi Beach, could see a new public holiday created due to the Saturday occurrence of Anzac Day.

While remembrance services will still take place nationwide on April 25, only Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory currently have an additional public holiday on the following Monday. NSW Premier Chris Minns disclosed ongoing discussions with relevant authorities to institute a new public holiday to compensate for Anzac Day falling on a weekend.

Anzac Day serves as a day of national remembrance in Australia, New Zealand, and Tonga, honoring all servicemen and women who contributed to wars and peacekeeping efforts. The day resembles the UK’s Remembrance Sunday and involves unique traditions like playing the coin-tossing game, two-up, to pay tribute to soldiers. The NSW government, in collaboration with the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL), is deliberating the potential holiday plans for this year and the next.

Amidst the discussions, Premier Minns emphasized the importance of maintaining the significance of Anzac Day itself, even if a supplementary holiday is granted. Public holidays in Australia vary across states, with NSW historically offering fewer holidays than other regions like Victoria. The debate continues as NSW residents advocate for a fair allocation of public holidays, with different states enjoying varying numbers of days off annually.

In 2026, NSW is set to observe 12 standard statewide public holidays, while Victorians will have 14 holidays. The disparity in holiday entitlements extends to other states, with South Australia and the Northern Territory leading with 15 public holidays this year. The quest for a balanced public holiday calendar remains a prominent issue among Australians, prompting ongoing discussions and considerations by state governments.