Anzac Day rights and pay – what you need to know
Retail workers get a full day off – with pay – this Anzac Day.
New laws have commenced that prevent most retailers trading on Anzac Day from 25 April 2025.
Previously, retailers have been able to open after 1pm on Anzac Day. This is no longer the case, as a result of your Union advocating for change.
A small number of shops will still be allowed to open for trade if you have a restricted trading exemption.
Anzac Day is a day for remembering, not shopping.
What does this mean for me?
- Full-time & Part-time employees: If Anzac Day falls on a day you would normally be rostered to work, you are entitled to paid time off. You will be paid your base or relevant rate of pay for the hours you would have worked.
- Casuals: Casuals cannot be required to work this Anzac Day.
What is a restricted trading exemption?
- Retailers with a restricted trading exemption may open for trade. This includes fast food, petrol, liquor, chemists, “small shops” and other classes of “exempt” shops.
- Even if your store is allowed to lawfully trade on the day it must be staffed only by workers who have freely elected to work. You cannot be required to work.
- So-called holiday resort areas no longer apply on Anzac Day and general shops in these areas must close for trade all day.
If you have any questions, your store opens for trade unlawfully or if you are coerced or pressured in any way to work on the day, please contact our office immediately on 1300 SDA HELP or email [email protected].