Coles opening hours on Anzac Day: Full State-by-State Guide

Anzac Day holds a special place in the hearts of many Australians, a solemn occasion to remember and honor those who have served in the armed forces. On this day, many retailers adjust their operating hours, and one of the most commonly asked questions is, "What are Coles opening hours on Anzac Day?" With so many people running last-minute errands or grabbing essentials for a day of remembrance, knowing when stores open and close is crucial.

In addition to Coles, another retail giant—Woolworths—also modifies its hours for Anzac Day. Shoppers often want to know how the two compare in terms of opening times. This article will not only answer the question of "Is Coles open on Anzac Day?" but also provide a detailed, state-by-state breakdown of Coles' trading hours across Australia, including regional variations.

What to Expect on Anzac Day 2025

Public holidays like Anzac Day often create confusion around shopping, as each state follows different retail trading rules. Retailers such as Coles and Woolworths adjust their hours, with most stores either opening late or closing early.

While Anzac Day is a time of remembrance, many Australians also find themselves picking up groceries or supplies for family gatherings. That’s why it’s important to know Coles opening hours on Anzac Day before heading out. These hours vary by state or territory.

This guide breaks down Coles' hours by region and compares them with Woolworths’ schedule, helping with holiday planning.

State-by-State Guide to Coles Opening Hours on Anzac Day

New South Wales (NSW)

In New South Wales, Coles stores will be closed all day on Anzac Day. This is due to specific legislation introduced in recent years that mandates full closure for non-exempt retail stores. As a result, no Coles locations in NSW will be open on Anzac Day 2025.

For those used to running errands early on public holidays, this change can be frustrating, but it's important to respect the solemnity of the day. If you're in NSW, plan accordingly and stock up on groceries the day before Anzac Day.

Victoria (VIC)

Victoria sees a more varied approach. Most Coles stores will open at 1 pm on Anzac Day and close by 10 pm. This delayed opening allows employees to participate in morning services or spend time with family. However, some regional stores may have different hours, so it’s a good idea to check with your local Coles for any exceptions.

The pattern in Victoria is similar to Woolworths, with many locations also opening later. If you need to grab something last minute, you’ll have a few hours in the afternoon to get your shopping done.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland follows a strict pattern similar to NSW, with all Coles stores closed on Anzac Day. While it may be a bit of an inconvenience for those hoping to pick up last-minute items, it's consistent with the state's public holiday laws. Be sure to plan your shopping ahead of time, especially if you need essentials.

Regional differences in Queensland may also come into play, so it's worth checking with local stores to confirm their hours. Woolworths will follow similar restrictions, so it's important to check both chains if you need to grab supplies before the holiday.

South Australia (SA)

In South Australia, the situation is a little more flexible. Most Coles stores will open later in the day, typically after 1 pm, with many closing at 9 or 10 pm. However, some regional locations may have different operating hours, so always double-check the timings with your nearest store.

SA's public holiday trading laws allow more flexibility compared to other states like Queensland and New South Wales, so if you're in Adelaide or a regional area, you'll have a better chance of getting your shopping done after the midday period.

Other States (WA, NT, TAS, ACT)

For the remaining states, here’s a quick overview:

• Western Australia (WA): Most Coles stores will be closed, but some regional locations will open after 12 pm or 1 pm.
  
  

• Northern Territory (NT): Similar to SA, stores will open after 12 pm with reduced trading hours.
  
  

• Tasmania (TAS): Coles stores in Tasmania will open after 12:30 pm and close by 6 pm, offering some flexibility for those in the area.
  
  

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): ACT stores will operate with similar hours to Victoria, opening at 1 pm.
  
  

It's always a good idea to check with your local store directly to confirm exact hours, as public holiday trading laws can be subject to change.

Coles vs Woolworths on Anzac Day

When it comes to "Is Coles open Anzac Day", it’s helpful to compare Coles’ hours with those of its competitor, Woolworths. In general, both retailers will be operating under similar restrictions, with most stores opening later in the afternoon or staying closed entirely, depending on the state.

For example, in New South Wales and Queensland, both Coles and Woolworths will be closed. In Victoria, however, both chains will open around 1 pm, allowing plenty of time for last-minute shopping in the afternoon.

For those who need to grab groceries for a quick meal, the hours at both Coles and Woolworths are fairly consistent. If you're wondering, "Are Woolworths opening hours public holidays different from Coles?"—the answer is, typically, no. Both chains adjust their hours similarly, but always check specific store listings for any variances.

Conclusion

When planning Anzac Day shopping, knowing the Coles opening hours on Anzac Day in your state is essential. Whether in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, or elsewhere, being aware of local variations helps avoid last-minute hassles. Check local store listings for updates, and note that Woolworths generally follows similar holiday hours. 

For those interested in public safety and holiday-related updates, this high-profile case involving a cricketer’s family also made headlines. For more holiday planning tips, explore our guide on Woolworths opening hours public holidays.