What are the main public holidays in Australia 2026?
Australia observes 9 national public holidays including New Year's Day, Australia Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, ANZAC Day, Queen's Birthday, Labour Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Each state may have additional holidays.
Do all states celebrate the same public holidays?
While national public holidays are observed across Australia, each state and territory has additional public holidays and may observe some holidays on different dates, particularly Queen's Birthday and Labour Day.
What is ANZAC Day and when is it observed?
ANZAC Day (April 25) commemorates the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served in military operations. It's a national day of remembrance and is observed across all states and territories.
Are banks and schools closed on public holidays in Australia?
Most banks, schools, and government offices are closed on national public holidays. Some retail businesses may remain open, particularly on certain holidays like Australia Day.
How is Australia Day celebrated?
Australia Day (January 26) is the national day of Australia, commemorating the First Fleet's arrival in 1788. It's celebrated with citizenship ceremonies, community events, and the Australian of the Year awards.
Do all employees get paid time off for public holidays?
Under the Fair Work Act, permanent employees are generally entitled to public holiday pay. Casual employees may be entitled to penalty rates if they work on public holidays. Rules vary by employment type and award.
What happens if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it's usually observed on the next Monday (or Tuesday if Monday is also a holiday). This ensures workers get a long weekend benefit.
Are there different Queen's Birthday dates across states?
Yes, most states observe Queen's Birthday on the second Monday in June, but Western Australia celebrates it in late September/October, and Queensland observes it on different dates.
What are some state-specific holidays in Australia?
Each state has unique holidays like Adelaide Cup Day (SA), Melbourne Cup Day (VIC), Canberra Day (ACT), Show Day holidays in various states, and different Labour Day dates across states.
How do I find out about local public holidays in my area?
Check with your state or territory government website, as they provide official public holiday calendars. Each state has specific holidays in addition to the national ones.