AN additional public holiday has been announced for NSW this year.
It falls on the Monday following Anzac Day, 25 April, which falls on a weekend.
“Each year, thousands of families rise before dawn on Anzac Day to commemorate and remember those who have served,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.
“The additional holiday on Monday does not replace Anzac Day on 25 April.
“Instead, it reinforces its importance and significance as well as making it consistent with other major public holidays.”
Substitute public holidays are already used for other key dates such as Christmas Day and Boxing Day, when those dates fall on weekends.
However, not everyone welcomes the move.
Concerns have been raised that introducing an extra day off risks shifting focus away from the symbolic significance of the day.
“Anzac Day on 25 April is one of the most important and solemn days on our national calendar, and that will not change,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“If anything, it is a reminder of its importance and another reason for people to get up, attend a local service and ensure the spirit of remembrance continues to be passed on to the next generation.”
By Cosette DE LORENZO
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