NSW Premier explains why Anzac Day NRL matches will still go ahead after he BANNED shops from opening on sacred day for veterans

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NSW Premier Chris Minns has explained why Anzac Day NRL matches will still go ahead next year after he banned retail shops from opening on the sacred date for war veterans.

Minns confirmed rugby league fixtures would continue to be played on April 25, pointing to ongoing negotiations between the RSL and NRL management.

'It's really important to note that that [Anzac] game came about as a result of long negotiations between the RSL and the rugby league,' he said on Wednesday.

'We don't want Anzac Day to be a solitary day, we want the community to come together and commemorate those that served their country.

'If you go to that rugby league game...you would acknowledge that the Anzac spirit...is not incidental to the game.

'It's central to the purpose of holding that event, now that's not a decision that I've made, it's a decision that the leadership of the RSL has made.

'The truth of the matter is Anzac Day is Australia's national day.'

The development comes as retail trade will be banned on Anzac Day from next year in NSW, with Premier Minns moving to stop 'creeping commercialism' on a date which 'brings all Australians together.' 

NSW Premier Chris Minns has explained why Anzac Day NRL matches will still go ahead next year after he banned retail shops from opening on the sacred date for war veterans

The clash between the Roosters and Dragons on April 25 is a highlight on the NRL calendar each year (pictured, footy star Angus Crichton)

The performing of the last post (pictured) on Anzac Day is a revered moment for many footy fans on Anzac Day

Minns has also moved to ban music festivals as it 'not a day' for them to be staged in his eyes.

Retail trading restrictions vary across Australian states and territories, with only Western Australia having a total ban on Anzac Day shopping.

Victoria and Queensland allow trading from 1pm, while the ACT and the Northern Territory have no restrictions in place.

RSL NSW president Mick Bainbridge said the decision from Minns will allow veterans and their families to attend commemorations together.

'It's a great way to ensure we protect the sanctity of Anzac Day, our most important veterans' day,' he said.

Opposition Leader Mark Speakman backed the extended trading ban, which he said ensured that veterans were properly honoured.

'It's a day of national significance and we must give everyone the chance to take part in commemorative services,' he said.

Premier Minns also announced that $2million will be spent to build the state's first major memorial for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan military campaigns.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action involving Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I.