With ANZAC Day falling on Saturday 25 April 2026, the NSW Premier has confirmed that Monday 27 April will also be recognised as a public holiday. This arrangement has been introduced for both 2026 and 2027, when ANZAC Day falls on a weekend, and is expected to affect penalty rate staffing costs and operational planning for small businesses across the state.
The Government has acknowledged that the additional Monday holiday may contribute to increased financial pressure for small business operators, particularly due to heightened wage obligations associated with public holiday penalty rates. Premier Chris Minns has noted that smaller employers are likely to experience the most significant impact, describing the change as “somewhat of an additional burden for small businesses.”
Laurence McLean, Director of Operations at Peninsula Australia, says the change highlights the importance of employers having a clear understanding of their entitlements and obligations: “Penalty rates on public holidays can increase wage costs significantly, depending on the applicable industrial instrument.
“For small businesses operating on tight margins, an additional public holiday immediately after a weekend, particularly where the Saturday prior is already a public holiday, in this case ANZAC Day on 25 April, can influence staffing decisions and operational planning. Reviewing rosters, confirming entitlements, and ensuring compliance with the Fair Work Act will help employers prepare effectively.”
Many employers may experience penalty rate impacts relating to:
- Adjustments to wage payments and penalty rates
- Last-minute rostering or scheduling challenges
- Reduced trading capacity should businesses decide not to open
- Increased HR and staffing considerations, particularly in industries reliant on weekend labour such as hospitality, retail, and care services
Laurence notes that early preparation can support smoother operations: “Being proactive about planning allows small businesses to manage the change with greater confidence. Reviewing award classifications, communicating with staff early, and understanding cost implications can help minimise disruption.”
While the Government has framed the additional public holiday as an opportunity for broader community participation in ANZAC Day, it has also acknowledged that the measure has not been universally welcomed by business owners.