Victoria to Pause for 110th Gallipoli Anniversary
This Friday, Victoria will observe the Anzac Day public holiday, marking the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. The day holds national significance, prompting dawn services and commemorative events throughout the state.
Under Victorian legislation, Anzac Day is recognised as a restricted trading day. From 12.01am to 1pm, most retailers must cease trading. However, certain businesses are exempt and permitted to operate during this time.
Public Holiday Details and Trading Restrictions
Victorians working on Anzac Day are entitled to public holiday penalty rates under state law. The restricted trading period limits most retail activity before 1pm. Essential services including:
- Medical clinics
- Chemists
- Petrol stations
- Cafes, restaurants and takeaway outlets
These services may operate during regular trading hours.
Supermarkets Set to Open From Afternoon
Major supermarkets across Victoria will open their doors after the restricted period.
- Woolworths will open from 1pm
- Coles will begin trading from 1pm
- Aldi stores will mostly open from 1pm, subject to store variations
- IGA stores will generally open from 1pm with some locations trading reduced hours
Independent markets including South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market, and Queen Victoria Market will remain closed throughout Anzac Day.
Bottle Shops Resume Trade After 1pm
Alcohol retailers are also affected by restricted trading hours on Anzac Day.
- Dan Murphy’s will open at 1pm
- Liquorland will begin trading from 1pm, with some stores having shorter hours
- BWS will open from 1pm
Shopping Centres Welcome Shoppers from 1pm
Victorian shopping centres will reopen to the public from the early afternoon.
- Chadstone Shopping Centre will open from 1pm
- All Westfield centres in Victoria will commence operations from 1pm
Department Stores and Hardware Open After Commemorations
Department and hardware stores will follow the state’s guidelines and resume operations in the afternoon.
- Kmart, Myer, Big W, and Target will all open from 1pm
- Bunnings stores across Victoria will open from 1pm
- Mitre 10 stores will mostly open at 1pm, though hours may vary by location
- Priceline stores will also commence trading at 1pm
- David Jones will open at 1pm
Customers are advised to confirm trading hours with their local stores as operations may differ slightly.
Cinemas Return to Screening After Midday
Cinema chains will commence operations following the commemorative services.
- Hoyts, Palace, Village, and Classic Cinemas will open from 1pm
Moviegoers can expect regular programming from early afternoon onwards.
Banks and Post Offices Remain Closed
Financial institutions and postal services will not open on Anzac Day. Banks and Australia Post outlets traditionally close on all public holidays, including Anzac Day.
Public Transport Services Support Anzac Day Travel
Public Transport Victoria will operate extra services to support travel to dawn services across the state. Additional trams, trains and buses will run throughout Friday. Veterans, War Widows, ADF members, Scouts, Guides, and students in uniform will travel for free on the public transport network.
Places to Attend Anzac Day Services
Victorians can attend dawn services and commemorative marches across the state. Major services will occur at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. Regional ceremonies will take place in towns including Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, and Warrnambool.
Also Read: Anzac Day 2025: Retailers Adjust Trading Hours Nationwide
Community Observance Encouraged Despite Retail Reopening
Although businesses will resume operations after 1pm, the morning remains a time for reflection. Victorians are encouraged to participate in Anzac Day services. The public is reminded that the morning restriction supports this national moment of respect and remembrance.
Summary of Key Opening Times on Anzac Day
- Supermarkets (Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, IGA): From 1pm
- Bottle shops (Dan Murphy’s, Liquorland, BWS): From 1pm
- Shopping centres (Chadstone, Westfield): From 1pm
- Department and hardware stores (Kmart, Myer, Bunnings): From 1pm
- Cinemas (Hoyts, Palace, Village): From 1pm
- Banks and post offices: Closed
- Public transport: Extra services with free travel for eligible groups
Businesses and customers are reminded that while trading resumes after 1pm, the morning is reserved for honouring those who served.
