NSW's Anzac Day Long Weekend Holiday Stirs Controversy Across Australia
The introduction of a new public holiday in New South Wales, granting residents a long weekend when Anzac Day falls on a weekend, is reportedly causing significant frustration among leaders of other states and territories. This move has placed NSW Premier Chris Minns in the spotlight, as he addressed concerns during a recent radio appearance.
Premier Minns Responds to Criticism Over Holiday Decision
During an interview on Triple M Breakfast, Premier Minns was questioned about how the new holiday has "ruffled a few feathers" with other state leaders. Reports indicate that premiers from other regions are now feeling pressure to implement similar measures next year, especially as Anzac Day is set to land on a Sunday, reigniting the debate.
Minns responded cautiously, stating, "I don't know what to say about that ... may well be true, I'm not sure." He further explained, "I think there's a few states that are lagging behind." He justified the decision by noting that NSW previously had only 11 public holidays annually, compared to 13 in most other states, calling it a "commonsense change."
Varied Approaches to Anzac Day Holidays Across States
Currently, the Australian Capital Territory has joined NSW in creating a long weekend if Anzac Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, while Western Australia has had this practice in place for years. However, several states and territories are not following suit this year:
- Victoria
- Tasmania
- South Australia
- Queensland
- Northern Territory
These regions will not grant an extra day off, with leaders expressing concerns about diluting the importance of Anzac Day. For instance, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasized, "It's really important that people do keep that day as being sacrosanct." Notably, Queensland will allow a three-day weekend in 2027 when Anzac Day falls on a Sunday, as per state laws.
Leaders Emphasize Anzac Day's Significance Over Holiday Status
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas reinforced the solemn nature of Anzac Day, stating, "It's a historic day for our nation and it's there to serve a purpose and it's not a holiday." He urged people to view it as a day for reflection rather than celebration, adding, "People need to think about Anzac Day as less of a day to party, and more of a day to show due deference and consideration to those who gave up their lives."
Similarly, Business Victoria confirmed that there is "no replacement holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend," highlighting the state's commitment to preserving the day's traditional observance. This stance reflects a broader national debate balancing commemoration with public holiday benefits.
