Most retail businesses must remain closed until 1 p.m. on Anzac Day this year, with violators facing potential fines of up to $1,000 under national trading laws.
- Most shops must remain shut for the first half of Anzac Day until 1 p.m.
- Monday will be a public holiday due to “Monday-isation,” though trading restrictions only apply to Saturday.
- Cafes and restaurants may apply public holiday surcharges of 10-15% if clearly disclosed.
Anzac Day Trading Restrictions
Under the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, Anzac Day is one of only four days a year where most shopping is prohibited for part or all of the day. These restricted dates include Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, and the first half of Anzac Day.
Because Anzac Day falls on a Saturday this year, it is a “Mondayised” public holiday. While many businesses will close on Monday, the specific trading restrictions apply only to the calendar date of Anzac Day on Saturday.
Exemptions and Alcohol Sales
Certain establishments are exempt from the closure requirements. These include pharmacies, service stations, takeaways, bars, cafes, duty-free stores, and small grocery shops.
Service-based businesses, such as real estate agencies, souvenir shops, and public transport terminals, are also permitted to operate. Retailers who open illegally may be fined up to $1,000.
Regarding alcohol sales, bottle shops must remain closed on Anzac Day morning. However, businesses holding an on-licence may operate under their normal licence conditions following recent parliamentary changes.
Public Holiday Surcharges
Cafes and restaurants may implement a surcharge to cover additional public holiday wage costs. These surcharges typically range between 10 and 15 percent.
The Commerce Commission requires that these fees be clearly disclosed to customers before a purchase is made, such as through signage or on a website. The Commission stated that the reason for the surcharge must be accurately described and must not mislead consumers.
Furthermore, the surcharge must not exceed the actual costs incurred by the business.
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