Anzac Day and everything it means to multiple generations of Australians has become an almost sacred event, remembering those who fought for the future our nation.

It remains a major celebration of the actions of our diggers, many now past, and endures as a way to educate each new generation.

Increasingly, those who take part in dawn services and early-morning marches are dealing with a drunken element which impinges on services.

Such is the change in nightclub and pub opening hours, particularly in large regional centres and metropolitan Melbourne, that a collision between the early risers and the intoxicated night owls on Anzac Day is inevitable.

So we applaud the State Government, which this week introduced an amendment to prohibit licensed venues from selling alcoholic drinks between 3am and 12pm starting on Anzac Day next month.

The amendment is very timely as Anzac Day this year falls on a Sunday - increasing the likelihood that weekend revellers could potentially stumble upon remembrance services.

Sensibly, RSL gunfire breakfasts and other commemorative events will be exempt while restaurants and cafaacés with liquor licences will be able to open but not serve alcohol until midday.

Some may suggest the amendment is just another sign that Victoria is moving further to becoming a "nanny" state.

Indeed we should be careful to ensure the message is clear - drinking in moderation is fine, just don't let it get out of control. After all, we know plenty of diggers who don't mind sharing a drop or two with their mates. This

should not be discouraged.

As the number of our veterans reduces, Anzac Day becomes more important. Anything authorities can do to ensure the day remains an appropriate honouring of the fallen will be seen as a positive step.