‘Not about getting a beer early’: RSL fights push to allow pubs and clubs to open earlier on Anzac Day

WA’s Returned and Services League is opposed to plans to allow licensed venues to open earlier on Anzac Day, saying it was a date for reflection not “just another day to get to the pub early.” The Liquor Control Amendment Bill 2025 , currently before the Legislative Council, aims to allow pubs, clubs, and restaurants to open from 10am on Anzac Day — two hours earlier than the current midday restriction. RSL WA argues the change risks undermining the solemnity and tradition of the day, and that Anzac Day morning should be reserved for services and reflection, not for commercial trading. RSL WA chief executive officer Stephen Barton said that while the organisation understands the Cook Government’s intent, there was no “compelling reason” to alter long-standing tradition. “We’re talking about two hours here,” Mr Barton said. “It’s 10 o’clock. This is the time when services are still going on, when marches are wrapping up both here in Perth and across the State. “I’m not really sure how those additional two hours really add to our civic life.” Mr Barton highlighted that the proposed changes could turn Anzac Day into “any other public holiday”, particularly for regional areas. He noted that smaller RSL sub-branches, which traditionally apply for a special licence to open early and serve as community hubs of mateship and commemoration, would be forced to compete with commercial venues. “Those institutions will be competing against bars and restaurants with people who just want to go at 10.05am and get a few beers and start watching the footy,” he said. The RSL WA also pointed to the fact that hotels were also benefiting from extended trading hours on other public holidays like Christmas Day and Good Friday. “The push by the (Australian Hotels Association) to have those additional two hours on Anzac Day is really about trying to make this a day like any other,” Mr Barton said. “It’s completely divorced from the significance of the day, which has always been about the commemoration and reflection on Australia’s experience in war. “It’s not just another day to get to the pub early.” RSL WA state president Duncan Anderson echoed those concerns. “Anzac Day morning isn’t about going to the pub or restaurant,” he said. “This is the time for the community, veterans and their families to come together to reflect and give thanks.” In response, AHA WA chief executive Bradley Woods said that the changes provided much-needed choice for patrons. Mr Woods noted people can already start drinking from 10am on Anzac Day — but only at RSLs. “It doesn’t matter what day it is, hospitality patrons should have flexibility and choice without additional restrictions being placed on them,” he said. Mr Woods said that the sacred nature of Anzac Day could still be respected. “The commemoration at the Dawn Service and throughout the morning, which this reform does not change, is respected,” he said. “The proposal simply gives hospitality venues the flexibility, allowing Australians the choice of how they spend the day.” Minister for Veterans Issues Paul Papalia, who is a veteran himself, also defended the proposed changes. Mr Papalia said the camaraderie and fellowship that follow a service are a crucial part of the day for veterans. “For us, Anzac Day doesn’t end at the march,” he said. “It’s about catching up with mates afterwards at a pub or RSL club, sharing a drink, telling stories, and remembering those who aren’t with us anymore. It’s how we check in with each other.”