About ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day (25 April) commemorates the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War — the landing at Gallipoli in 1915.
Today, ANZAC Day is one of Australia's most important national occasions. It marks the anniversary of the first campaign that led to major casualties for Australian and New Zealand forces, and has evolved to honour all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
Key ANZAC Day Events
- Dawn services: Held at war memorials across Australia from around 6:00 AM, reflecting the time of the original Gallipoli landing
- Marches: Veterans, current service members, and descendants march through city and town centres
- The Last Post: Played at services to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice
- Two-up: The traditional Australian gambling game is legally permitted in many venues on ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day 2026 Public Holiday — State by State
Because ANZAC Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, substitute public holiday arrangements vary by state:
| State/Territory | ANZAC Day | Substitute Holiday | Notes |
|---|
| NSW | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday for weekday workers |
| VIC | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| QLD | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| SA | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| WA | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| TAS | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| NT | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
| ACT | Sat 25 Apr | Mon 27 Apr | Substitute holiday applies |
Check the Fair Work Ombudsman for the most up-to-date information on your specific award or agreement.
ANZAC Day Penalty Rates
If you work on ANZAC Day (or the substitute Monday), you may be entitled to penalty rates:
- Full-time/part-time employees: Typically 200-250% of base rate (double time to double-time-and-a-half)
- Casual employees: Typically 250-275% of base rate (including casual loading)
- Some awards allow refusal: Under certain awards, employees can refuse to work on ANZAC Day if they have reasonable grounds
Rates vary by industry award and enterprise agreement. Always check your specific award on the Fair Work website.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is ANZAC Day 2026?
ANZAC Day 2026 is on Saturday 25 April 2026. Because it falls on a Saturday, some states provide a substitute public holiday on Monday 27 April.
Is ANZAC Day a public holiday in all states?
Yes. ANZAC Day (25 April) is a national public holiday observed in every Australian state and territory. It is also observed in New Zealand.
Do I get a day off if ANZAC Day falls on a weekend?
It depends on your state. In most states, if ANZAC Day falls on a Saturday, the following Monday is a substitute public holiday for those who would normally work on a weekday. Check your state's specific rules.
What are penalty rates on ANZAC Day?
Under the Fair Work Act, employees who work on ANZAC Day are typically entitled to penalty rates of 200-250% of their base pay, depending on their award or enterprise agreement.
What time do dawn services start?
Dawn services traditionally begin at 6:00 AM (or earlier at some locations). The main march and ceremony usually follows at around 9:00-10:00 AM. Check your local RSL for exact times.