Why the NRL grand final is VERY good news for drinkers in one Aussie state
- The biggest competition of the year starts on Sunday at 7:30 PM
- Penrith Panthers are aiming for their fourth title in a row
If you’re an NRL fan looking to celebrate the aftermath of the biggest match of the year until Sunday evening, NSW is the place to be following the relaxed state laws governing licensed premises for the grand final.
Premier Chris Minns announced the overnight change on social media on Saturday, writing: “We want NSW to be able to safely make the most of the excitement of the NRL Grand Final this long weekend.
‘So, under our special extended trading event, all eligible licensed venues showing a live broadcast of the match tomorrow will be able to trade until midnight instead of 10pm.’
He then ended with, “Go the Panthers!”
However, the extra opening hours only apply if you buy drinks on site. Takeaway alcohol and gaming machines are not included.
The change falls under the Liquor Act, which takes into account events that are of ‘regional, state or national importance’.
According to the NSW Government, the measure is intended to ‘support the state’s venues and encourage a vibrant nightlife for residents and visitors’.
The extra hours come as Aussies in NSW, South Australia and the ACT get a holiday for Labor Day on Monday, while the King’s Birthday is celebrated in Queensland.
The NRL grand final between the Storm and Panthers ends around 9.30pm – and drinkers in NSW can party long into the night thanks to a rule change by the state government (pictured, Melbourne’s Jahrome Hughes and Penrith’s Nathan Clear)
Beer, wine or cocktail enthusiasts can enjoy a drink until midnight in a licensed premises showing a live broadcast of the big match (stock image)
Here’s what’s open when residents make the most of a day off…
Woolworths
NSW & ACT: Most shops are open.
QLD: Most shops are open (except Ipswich, Mt Isa Plaza, Toowong and Cloncurry).
SA: Most shops are closed.
Coles
NSW & ACT: Standard trading hours.
QLD: Most shops: 9am – 6pm.
Pacific Fair, Australia Fair, Cairns Central, Newfarm, Port Douglas, Surfers Paradise, Miami, Palm Beach: 7am – 9pm.
South Australia: Most shops are closed.
Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Berri, Port Augusta, Mount Barker, Whyalla, Murray Bridge Green, Mount Gamier and Victor Harbor are open from 8am to 8pm.
Rundle Place Adelaide is open from 11am to 5pm.
Aldi
Opening hours apply per store and customers can consult the Aldi website.
Drinkland
Stores in states that celebrate the holiday will trade with shorter trading hours.
Most Liquorland stores in South Australia will be closed on Monday.
Dan Murphy’s
Most Dan Murphy’s are open from 10am to 7pm.
BWS
Most BWS stores open at 9am and close between 7pm and 9pm.