Each year on April 25th, Australians and New Zealanders pause to commemorate ANZAC Day a solemn occasion honoring the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. This national day of remembrance is marked by dawn services, marches, and moments of reflection. As a result, many businesses, including major supermarkets like Woolworths, adjust their trading hours to respect the significance of the day. For shoppers planning their visits, it’s important to know Woolworths ANZAC Day hours in advance, as these hours vary by location and state regulations.
Understanding ANZAC Day and Its Observance
ANZAC Day is not just a public holiday it is a deeply significant day in Australian culture and national identity. Observed annually since 1916, the day is a time for communities to gather, reflect, and honor those who have served their country. Because of its importance, federal and state governments impose trading restrictions to ensure that the solemnity of the morning is respected across the country.
General Trading Rules on ANZAC Day
Australia’s trading laws on ANZAC Day vary by state and territory, but a common theme is that many retail businesses, especially larger stores and supermarkets, remain closed until at least 1: 00 PM. This restriction is in place to encourage public participation in commemorative events and to maintain the dignity of the day’s purpose. Woolworths, as one of the largest supermarket chains in Australia, follows these guidelines closely.
Woolworths ANZAC Day Opening Hours by State
Because trading hours differ depending on where you live, below is a breakdown of typical Woolworths ANZAC Day opening hours by state or territory. However, these hours may still vary at the store level, so checking with your local Woolworths before heading out is always advisable.
New South Wales (NSW)
In New South Wales, most Woolworths stores remain closed until 1: 00 PM on ANZAC Day. After 1: 00 PM, trading resumes with normal or slightly reduced evening hours. Some regional or small-town stores may choose to remain closed all day out of respect for local traditions.
Victoria (VIC)
Similar to NSW, Woolworths stores in Victoria generally open at 1: 00 PM on ANZAC Day. City-based supermarkets in Melbourne typically reopen in the early afternoon and operate until their usual evening closing time.
Queensland (QLD)
Queensland enforces strict trading regulations on ANZAC Day. Most Woolworths supermarkets remain closed until 1: 00 PM. However, some exemptions may apply for smaller convenience-style Woolworths Metro stores, particularly those in tourist or CBD locations.
Western Australia (WA)
Woolworths stores in Western Australia often follow the standard closure until 1: 00 PM. In Perth and surrounding areas, stores typically resume trading in the early afternoon, with some regional outlets observing full-day closures depending on community preferences.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia has specific public holiday trading rules. Most Woolworths supermarkets in metropolitan Adelaide and other major areas open from 12: 00 PM or 1: 00 PM onwards. In some regional zones, stores may remain closed for the entire day.
Tasmania (TAS)
In Tasmania, Woolworths generally operates with delayed openings on ANZAC Day. Most stores across the island state begin trading after 1: 00 PM, although smaller or regional outlets might have limited trading hours.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
In the ACT, Woolworths stores typically open from 1: 00 PM on ANZAC Day. Shoppers in Canberra and nearby areas can expect most locations to be open in the afternoon, operating with standard evening hours thereafter.
Northern Territory (NT)
Woolworths stores in the Northern Territory usually reopen after 12: 00 PM or 1: 00 PM on ANZAC Day. In Darwin and other urban areas, supermarkets generally follow the common trading pattern of afternoon operations only.
Woolworths Metro and 24-Hour Locations
While most full-sized Woolworths supermarkets follow restricted hours on ANZAC Day, Woolworths Metro stores, especially those located in city centers or near transportation hubs, may have different opening times. Some may open earlier than standard stores, but only after the required closure period mandated by law. Similarly, 24-hour Woolworths locations pause their trading during the morning hours and resume service in the afternoon.
Online Shopping and Delivery on ANZAC Day
Woolworths online shopping services including same-day delivery and pick-up are also affected by ANZAC Day regulations. Most deliveries and pick-up services are unavailable during the morning hours of April 25th. Delivery services typically resume after the permitted opening time in each state. Customers using the Woolworths app or website will receive notices of any changes or delays related to ANZAC Day service interruptions.
Tips for Shoppers
- Plan your grocery shopping a day or two before ANZAC Day to avoid last-minute stress.
- Check the Woolworths store locator or app to confirm exact opening hours for your preferred location.
- Be respectful of store staff working on public holidays they are often volunteering or rostered under special arrangements.
- Participate in local ANZAC Day services if possible; many communities hold meaningful dawn ceremonies open to the public.
Respecting the Spirit of ANZAC Day
While it’s convenient to shop at Woolworths on ANZAC Day, it’s important to remember the deeper meaning behind the day. The delayed store openings across Australia are a reflection of the country’s respect for veterans and current service members. By allowing time for national reflection and remembrance before commercial activity resumes, Woolworths and other businesses help uphold the solemnity of this national occasion.
Woolworths ANZAC Day hours are adjusted in line with state laws and national tradition, generally resulting in stores being closed until at least 1: 00 PM. These changes allow Australians to observe the significance of April 25th through community services and personal reflection. Whether you’re planning a grocery run or ordering online, being aware of these trading adjustments ensures a smoother and more respectful experience. As ANZAC Day approaches, take the time not only to plan your shopping, but also to pause and honor those who have given so much for the freedoms we enjoy today.