Anzac Day is always observed on April 25, to commemorate the day that the ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) first landed at Gallipoli in 1915. Traditionally, if Anzac Day should fall on a weekday, a public holiday is observed. However, if it should fall on a Saturday, there is no additional ‘substitute’ public holiday on the following Monday.  The exception here has long been Western Australia, which has observed a substitute public holiday for Anzac Day for many years.

In 2026, Anzac Day takes place on a Saturday, and in 2027 it falls on a Sunday. This year, the NSW state government has decided to trial an additional public holiday on the Monday following Anzac Day for 2026 and 2027. The ACT will also be observing an additional public holiday on the Monday this year. This means more Australians will get an extra three-day weekend for this year. 

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Credit: Chris Court

Other states and territories will continue to stick to the status quo, and will therefore not have an additional public holiday to observe Anzac Day for 2026. This includes Queensland, Victoria, the Northern Territory, South Australia and Tasmania. However, Northern Territory and Queensland already have a long weekend the following week, thanks to May Day and Labour Day falling on Monday, May 4. And when Anzac Day falls on a Sunday in Queensland, the Northern Territory and South Australia, an additional public holiday is observed on the Monday. So they will all get an extra public holiday next year. 

For those in NSW looking to take full advantage of the long weekend here are 21 of the best regional restaurants in NSW that are worthy of a road trip. If you’re looking for a picturesque spot that pours a good drop for a long lunch in WA, here are 10 of the best wineries to dine at.

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