Employers told to prepare accordingly ahead of additional holiday
HR leaders across New South Wales have been urged to prepare in advance for the additional public holiday declared by the state government for the Monday following Anzac Day.
NSW Premier Chris Minns announced earlier this week that April 27, will be an additional public holiday after Anzac Day falls on a Saturday.
This will also be the case in 2027, with Anzac Day falling on a Sunday.
The change is expected to impact businesses across Australia, particularly smaller businesses.
"We know that it's somewhat of an additional burden for small businesses in particular," Minns previously said as quoted by Yahoo Finance.
"But this is, we believe, an important thing to do for the state."
What can HR leaders expect
HR leaders can expect increased staffing considerations because of the change, particularly for those in businesses reliant on weekend labour, according to workplace advisory firm Peninsula Australia.
Employers are also advised to be mindful of penalty rates that will apply to employees who will work on public holidays.
"Penalty rates on public holidays can increase wage costs significantly, depending on the applicable industrial instrument," said Laurence McLean, director of operations at Peninsula Australia.
Employers can also expect the following impacts of the holiday change:
- Last-minute rostering or scheduling challenges
- Reduced trading capacity should businesses decide not to open
McLean said reviewing rosters, confirming entitlements, and ensuring compliance with the Fair Work Act will help employers prepare effectively.
"Being proactive about planning allows small businesses to manage the change with greater confidence," he said.
"Reviewing award classifications, communicating with staff early, and understanding cost implications can help minimise disruption."
Public holidays review
The additional public holiday in New South Wales comes as the state marks fewer public holidays than any other state or territory in Australia.
NSW only has 11 public holidays in 2026, compared with 15 in South Australia and Northern Territory. It is also fewer than the 14 public holidays in Queensland, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory.
"NSW has fewer public holidays than any other state or territory, and that’s something worth examining thoughtfully," said Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis in a statement.
A review of NSW's public holidays is expected to commence in 2027, which will consider a permanent change to Anzac Day public holiday arrangements when it falls on a weekend.
It will also consider the current number of state-wide public holidays in NSW and whether the state should have an additional public holiday.
"This review will look at whether the balance is right for workers, families and businesses, and whether there is a case for change going forward," Cotsis said.
