The State Government’s decision on public holidays in 2004 is a sensible response to the unusual circumstances that occur this year with a number of public holidays falling on a weekend, says VECCI.

The Small Business Minister, Marsha Thomson, has firstly confirmed that ANZAC Day, which falls on Sunday this year, will continue to be observed on the calendar date, with no additional substitute day.

"This is a sensible decision", says VECCI Chief Executive Officer, Neil Coulson.

"It reflects the traditional practice followed by both Liberal and Labor Governments in Victoria and, accordingly, provides appropriate certainty for Victorian employers and for business in this State.

"It is also the approach that has been adopted by the Industrial Relations Commission in test case decisions, which have recognised the particular significance of ANZAC Day.

"This has, in turn, been reflected in the Commission’s awards, which do not provide for a substitute day when ANZAC Day falls on a weekend.

"The Minister’s decision appropriately reflects these outcomes and emphasises that ANZAC Day is not an excuse for a long weekend but an important day of commemoration.

"It is unfortunate that some other States will not follow Victoria’s lead on this occasion.

"At the same time, the Minister has announced that substitute days will be provided on Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th December because Christmas Day and Boxing Day fall on Saturday and Sunday this year.

"This decision again reflects past practice - it also follows Commission decisions and award conditions, which do provide for substitute days in these circumstances, meaning that a common pattern of holiday observance will apply in Victoria during the Christmas period," says Mr Coulson.

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VECCI Strategic Communications
Ph:      (03) 8662 5226
email: media@vecci.org.au