Major Retail Shutdowns and Trading Shifts Define Anzac Day 2026

Detailed guide to Australian retail trading hours for Anzac Day 2026. Discover which major supermarkets and shops are closed or restricted in your home state.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 9:34 AM EDT

Source: news.com.au

New South Wales Implements Unprecedented Retail Freeze

The most substantial change to the 2026 retail calendar occurs in New South Wales under the Retail Trading Amendment (Anzac Day Trading Hours) Act 2024. For the first time, major retailers are prohibited from opening at all on Saturday, moving away from the traditional 1:00 p.m. opening time. This total shutdown applies to industry giants including Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, and Westfield shopping centres, as well as large scale hardware stores like Bunnings.

Furthermore, the restrictions extend to stand alone liquor retailers, meaning Dan Murphy’s and Liquorland outlets will remain shuttered. However, the legislation maintains exemptions for small businesses with four or fewer employees and essential services such as chemists, petrol stations, and cafes. Hospitality venues including pubs and clubs are also permitted to trade, providing a source for takeaway alcohol where applicable.

Varied Restrictions Across Victoria and Queensland

In Victoria, the regulatory environment remains focused on a half day pause. Most retail businesses are legally required to stay closed until 1:00 p.m., ensuring the morning is reserved for dawn services and marches. Small businesses with 20 or fewer staff members are exempt from this morning closure, while cinemas and entertainment venues must adhere to the post lunch opening schedule.

Queensland continues to enforce some of the nation's strictest permanent trading limits. General retail trading is largely banned for the entire day for major national chains like Kmart and Target. Independent retailers in the Sunshine State may open their doors from 1:00 p.m., while exempt categories including small grocery stores and pharmacies can operate throughout the day without specific hourly restrictions.