Queensland's Anzac Day 2026 Trading Impact
Anzac Day in 2026, falling on a Saturday, is set to cause operational adjustments for Queensland's real estate and hospitality sectors due to state trading laws. Unlike other Australian states, Queensland will not observe an additional public holiday on the following Monday.
Real Estate Sector Adjustments
Queensland government trading laws prohibit real estate agents from conducting sales activities, including open houses, auctions, and related preparatory work, on Anzac Day. Only rental transactions are permitted. Industry figures, such as Ashley Robinson of Ray White Metro North and REIQ chief operating officer Kat Beavon, confirm these restrictions. Agents are advised to ensure sales staff do not conduct any sales-related work, remotely or in-office.
"Queensland government trading laws prohibit real estate agents from conducting sales activities, including open houses, auctions, and related preparatory work, on Anzac Day. Only rental transactions are permitted."
Real estate professionals anticipate rescheduling open houses and auctions to the following Sunday or subsequent Saturday. Brisbane auctioneer David Holmes noted that modern technology allows for online bidding, offering flexibility. Despite the disruption, industry observers suggest the impact will be manageable as it affects only one day.
Hospitality Sector Challenges
While small shops and cafes are exempt from Anzac Day trading restrictions, they face increased labor costs due to public holiday penalty rates. On Anzac Day, cafes will pay staff double-time wages, compared to the usual weekend penalty rate of time and a half.
"On Anzac Day, cafes will pay staff double-time wages, compared to the usual weekend penalty rate of time and a half."
Phil Di Bella, founder of Coffee Commune, highlighted the significant financial pressure on hospitality venues. He stated that rising wage costs, alongside increases in utilities, packaging, freight, and insurance, are contributing to business closures and reduced profit margins. Di Bella noted that one in ten cafes closed last year, with the average hospitality business achieving only a three percent profit margin. He suggested a review of public holiday penalty rates to alleviate the burden on businesses and prevent further price increases for consumers.