April 25th holds a special place in the hearts of Australians. It’s a day when silence speaks louder than words, when the rising sun meets bowed heads, and when a nation comes together—not to celebrate, but to remember.
Anzac Day 2025 is here, and with it comes both solemn tradition and some important changes across the country.
🕊️ Dawn Services Across the Nation
As always, the day begins before the sun does. Across cities, towns, and quiet corners of the country, people gather at dawn to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served.
From the Cenotaph in Sydney to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, from Canberra’s Australian War Memorial to the beaches of Perth—these services are more than events. They are moments of unity and reflection.
Families, veterans, school children, and strangers stand side by side in the early morning chill, candles in hand, eyes closed in prayer or memory. Each location brings its own local traditions, but the heart behind it is always the same.
🛍️ What’s Open and What’s Not on Anzac Day 2025
In honour of the significance of this national day, retail trading hours are adjusted across the country—giving both workers and shoppers the space to reflect, pause, and participate in commemorations.
Here’s what to expect across the states:
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NSW: This year, most shops including supermarkets will remain closed for the entire day—marking a deeper respect for Anzac Day than previous years.
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Victoria & Tasmania: Large retailers will open only after midday, allowing the morning to be dedicated to services and remembrance.
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Queensland: Similar to NSW, most major retailers will remain closed for the full day.
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South Australia: In Adelaide’s CBD, large shops may open from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Elsewhere, restrictions remain in place for the day.
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ACT & NT: Businesses here may operate as usual, though many choose to observe the spirit of the day in their own way.
No matter where you are in Australia, essential services like pharmacies and service stations remain open, ensuring access without taking away from the meaning of the day.
🎖️ A Time to Remember
Anzac Day is not about convenience—it’s about connection. It’s about remembering the brave. It’s about teaching the young and honouring the old. It’s about taking one day out of the year to put life on pause and say, “Thank you.”
So whether you're attending a dawn service, wearing a poppy on your lapel, or simply stopping for a minute’s silence—know that you’re part of something deeply meaningful.
