“We believe there’s been a creeping commercialism of Anzac Day over a long period of time to the detriment of the importance of the day,” Mr Minns said on Wednesday.
Australian Retailers Association chief executive Paul Zahra said NSW’s current approach struck the right balance between respectful commemoration and consumer choice and convenience.
“Changing this legislation will not change the way Australians come together on this important day,” Mr Zahra said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns on Wednesday announced that retail trade will be banned on Anzac Day. Kate Geraghty
“While we are relieved to see that small businesses such as cafes, restaurants and chemists are exempt, larger retailers – including essential retailers such as supermarkets, electrical, hardware and department stores selling winter necessities – will be affected.
“Shoppers still require food and supplies on public holidays, which is why we view larger retailers as essential service providers, particularly in regional and remote locations.”
Mr Zahra said ARA data showed that NSW consumers wanted the option to shop for food and essentials on Anzac Day after 1pm, while adding that the earning capacity of retail staff could be affected.
“If NSW were to create another set of unique rules, it will become even more complicated for national retailers to manage.”
Mr Miles said he would take advice from the RSL and Anzac Day Committee and consider the day’s trading conditions “if they thought it was necessary”.
Queensland already has a more stringent trading policy on Anzac Day than NSW, with large shops such as Coles and Woolworths forced to stay closed for the entirety of the day. The operation of specific public amusement places such as cinemas, theatres and amusement parks is allowed from 1.30pm.
A Business Chamber Queensland spokeswoman said the potential effect on businesses must be at the forefront of decisions relating to trading restrictions.
“We acknowledge the importance of Anzac Day and the significance of commemorating the day, and that can be achieved in Queensland while balancing all factors within the community, including businesses and workforces,” she said.
Mr Minns also announced that $2 million would be spent to build the state’s first major memorial for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.
Coles and Woolworths referred The Australian Financial Review to the ARA statement.