New South Wales (NSW) is set to introduce an extra public holiday for Anzac Day in 2026 and 2027. This announcement, made by NSW Premier Chris Minns, is significant as it marks the first time that the state will have an additional day off to commemorate Anzac Day on the following Monday when the actual observance falls on a Saturday or Sunday. Previously, this arrangement was only available in Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, leaving many residents of NSW without an extra holiday to honor the day dedicated to remembering those who served in the armed forces.

Premier Minns emphasized that adding this public holiday does not undermine the tradition of Anzac Day; instead, it reinforces its importance in society. By providing a long weekend for families and communities, the intention is to encourage greater participation in local remembrance services, fostering awareness and acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by past servicemen and women. Thus, the additional holidays will serve as a reminder of the significance of Anzac Day and offer families an opportunity to bond over the shared remembrance of history.

This decision may pave the way for further discussions on public holiday policies in Australia, particularly regarding how states honor significant national events. Critics have often pointed out the uneven distribution of public holidays across states, making this decision by NSW a potentially pivotal moment in addressing some of these disparities. By aligning its policies more closely with other jurisdictions, NSW could be setting a precedent for future public holiday considerations in an effort to promote unity and national pride through collective remembrance.