Anzac Day is a day of remembrance to honour members of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps who have given their lives for their countries. The day of remembrance takes place on April 25 each year, the day in 1915 when Australian and New Zealand troops entered the first world war in Gallipoli, Turkey. Anzac day will affect trading hours across Australia, here’s how.
Most New South Wales, Australian Capitol Territory and Victoria stores will open from 1pm local time, in the Northern Territory they will open from midday.
For those in Tasmania, Coles will open at 12.30pm. Only a few of Coles supermarkets in Western Australia will open.
This includes shops in Albany and Busselton which open at 12pm and 1pm respectively.
Dunsborough and Eaton Fair stores also open at 12pm.
History behind Anzac Day
Anzac Day takes place on April 25 each year, to commemorate the first day that Australian and New Zealand troops joined the first world war.
These were volunteers from the Commonwealth countries who aided the British by landing in Gallipoli to ensure a safe passage for allied naval troops.
In Gallipoli, the battle raged for eight months and saw more than 8,000 Anzac soldiers killed.
The battle in Turkey ended in a stalemate, and the allies called for an evacuation of troops.
Afterwards, the Anzac soldiers were called the “Knights of Gallipoli” for their bravery in the fierce fighting.
April 25 became known as Anzac day in 1916, and the first ceremonies to honour those who fought in Gallipoli were held in 1923.
Today, remembrance services are held across Australia and New Zealand honouring those who fought in Gallipoli and have served for their country since.