Public Holidays in Australia: How They Affect Your Trip

Planning a trip to Australia? You’ve probably chosen your dates around the seasons, the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru sunsets, or the Sydney Opera House. But there’s another planner’s secret that can make or break your itinerary: Australian public holidays. These dates bring buzzing festivals and long-weekend energy, but they also mean booked-out hotels, changed opening hours, and busy roads. With the right strategy, you can turn public holidays into the highlight of your trip—or at least avoid the pitfalls.

This guide explains how public holidays in Australia work, when they fall, how they impact travel, and smart ways to plan around them. You’ll also find state-by-state nuances, can’t-miss events, and practical tips to save time, money, and stress.

Why Public Holidays Matter for Travelers

Public holidays in Australia are more than dates on a calendar—they shape the rhythm of life. They mean:

• Long weekends that supercharge demand for flights, car rentals, and accommodation
• Special events and festivals, from dawn services to fireworks and parades
• Adjusted trading hours and closures, especially on religious holidays
• Higher prices and minimum-night stays in popular regions
• Reduced public transport services in cities

Handled well, public holidays offer a unique cultural snapshot: surf-lifesaving carnivals, outback races, winter ski openings, and locally loved sporting rituals. Handled poorly, they can bring queues, surcharges, and “no vacancies.” Let’s make sure you’re on the first list.

The Big Picture: Australia’s Major Public Holidays and Travel Impact

Below are the major Australian public holidays (nationwide) you’ll likely encounter as a visitor, plus what they mean for your trip. Exact dates can vary each year (and some holidays are state-based), so always check official calendars for the year you’re traveling.

New Year’s Day (1 January)

• What to expect: Fireworks, festivals, and a sleepy morning-after vibe on 1 January. Many shops open late or run holiday hours.
• Travel impact:
  • Accommodation in major cities—especially Sydney and Melbourne—books out months in advance.
  • Public transport runs on a public holiday timetable; late-night services on New Year’s Eve are common in big cities.
  • Road closures and crowds around fireworks vantage points.
• Pro tip: Book harbor cruises and city-view hotels as early as possible if you want those bucket-list fireworks.

Australia Day (26 January)

• What to expect: Citizenship ceremonies, community events, concerts, and fireworks in some cities. The date is sensitive for many Australians, particularly First Nations communities; expect rallies or cultural events, especially in major cities.
• Travel impact:
  • Family-friendly events on beaches and waterfronts; busy parks and public spaces.
  • Trading hours vary—tourist areas are often open, but some independent businesses close.
• Pro tip: If you’re seeking cultural insight, consider visiting museums, galleries, or Indigenous cultural centers for thoughtful programming around this date.

Labour Day (date varies by state)

• What to expect: A long weekend that triggers coastal getaways and road trips.
• Travel impact:
  • Dates differ by state (March in VIC/WA, May in QLD, October in NSW/ACT/SA), creating multiple peaks across the year.
  • Accommodation in coastal towns, the Great Ocean Road, and national parks sells out early.
• Pro tip: If you’re flexible, base yourself in a state that doesn’t observe Labour Day that weekend.

Good Friday, Easter Saturday/Sunday, Easter Monday (dates vary, March/April)

• What to expect: One of the busiest travel periods of the year. Family reunions, camping trips, packed beaches, and church services.
• Travel impact:
  • Good Friday typically brings extensive trading restrictions; many restaurants and bottle shops (liquor stores) close or have limited service.
  • Supermarkets and shopping centers may be closed on Good Friday and run reduced hours for the rest of the weekend (varies by state).
  • Traffic is heavy; public transport runs on public holiday/Sunday schedules.
• Pro tip: Book dining ahead and stock up on essentials before Good Friday. Some tours don’t operate on Good Friday and Easter Sunday—check in advance.

ANZAC Day (25 April)

• What to expect: Dawn services and parades commemorating Australian and New Zealand service men and women. It’s a powerful, moving experience—visitors are welcome.
• Travel impact:
  • Morning trading restrictions are common; many shops and venues open after midday.
  • Road closures for marches in city centers.
• Pro tip: Attend a dawn service for a meaningful local experience, then schedule museum visits or outdoor activities in the afternoon.

King’s Birthday (date varies by state)

• What to expect: A long weekend in most states on the second Monday in June (except QLD and WA).
• Travel impact:
  • In NSW, VIC, TAS, SA, ACT, and NT this weekend often marks the first weekend of the snow season in NSW and VIC—Jindabyne, Thredbo, Perisher, and Falls Creek book out.
  • In QLD, the King’s Birthday is the first Monday in October; in WA it’s typically late September—creating different long-weekend peaks.
• Pro tip: If you’re chasing winter sports, plan early. If you’re chasing quieter cities, visit somewhere that doesn’t observe the holiday that weekend.

Christmas Day (25 December) and Boxing Day (26 December)

• What to expect: Christmas is a major family holiday; many attractions and restaurants close on 25 December. Boxing Day is famous for sales, cricket at the MCG, and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race departure.
• Travel impact:
  • Peak summer season: expensive flights, strict minimum-night stays, and limited availability at beach destinations.
  • Trading restrictions on 25 December; reduced hours on 26 December in some places.
  • Heavy traffic on coastal roads and airport queues.
• Pro tip: If you want to dine out on Christmas Day, book months in advance. Expect holiday surcharges.

Note: South Australia observes Proclamation Day on 26 December rather than “Boxing Day” in name—the travel impact is the same.

Popular State and Territory–Specific Public Holidays Travelers Notice

Australia also has state-based holidays that can catch visitors off-guard. Here’s what’s most likely to affect your plans.

New South Wales (NSW)

• Labour Day: First Monday in October
• Additional notes:
  • ANZAC Day morning trading restrictions
  • Sydney: huge events calendar; public transport typically runs public holiday schedules, with extra services for major events
• Travel tip: Coastal towns (Byron Bay, South Coast) sell out over long weekends—book early.

Victoria (VIC)

• Labour Day: Second Monday in March
• AFL Grand Final Eve: Friday before the AFL Grand Final (late September)
• Melbourne Cup Day: First Tuesday in November (metro Melbourne and some regions)
• Travel tip: The long weekend created by the Grand Final public holiday is a major getaway period; Melbourne hotels book out for the Cup.

Queensland (QLD)

• Labour Day: First Monday in May
• King’s Birthday: First Monday in October
• Regional public holidays: Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) public holiday in Brisbane area in August (date varies)
• Travel tip: The Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, and Sunshine/Gold Coasts are in hot demand over QLD long weekends and school holidays.

Western Australia (WA)

• Labour Day: First Monday in March
• Western Australia Day: First Monday in June
• King’s Birthday: Typically late September (date varies by year)
• Travel tip: The late September King’s Birthday weekend aligns with wildflower season and the Perth Royal Show—busy period statewide.

South Australia (SA)

• Adelaide Cup Day: Second Monday in March
• Labour Day: First Monday in October
• Proclamation Day: 26 December
• Travel tip: Many cellar doors in the Barossa and McLaren Vale observe closures on Good Friday and Christmas—always check in advance.

Tasmania (TAS)

• Eight Hours Day: Second Monday in March
• Regional show days: Royal Hobart, Launceston, and other areas have local holidays in spring
• Travel tip: Ferry crossings on the Spirit of Tasmania book out well in advance for long weekends.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Canberra Day: Second Monday in March
• Reconciliation Day: Last Monday in May
• Labour Day: First Monday in October
• Travel tip: National institutions (museums, galleries) can be busy on public holidays; check opening hours.

Northern Territory (NT)

• May Day: First Monday in May
• Picnic Day: First Monday in August
• Travel tip: The Darwin region is in peak Dry Season (June–August); long weekends amplify demand—book Kakadu and Litchfield tours early.

What Changes on a Public Holiday: Practical On‑the‑Ground Impacts

Here’s what you’ll likely see and how to handle it like a pro.

• Trading hours:
  • Good Friday and Christmas Day: Many supermarkets, shops, and bottle shops close; restaurants may close or operate limited service.
  • ANZAC Day: Morning trading restrictions; many venues open after midday.
  • Other holidays: Tourist areas often open, but independent businesses may close or reduce hours.
• Dining and surcharges:
  • Many restaurants add a public holiday surcharge (often 10–20%). It should be disclosed on the menu.
  • Book ahead for popular spots, especially in coastal towns and wine regions.
• Transport:
  • Public transport runs on a Sunday/public holiday timetable (reduced frequency).
  • Rideshares and taxis may have higher demand and surge pricing.
  • Airports are busy—arrive earlier than usual.
• Road trips:
  • Expect heavy traffic at the start and end of long weekends.
  • Some states apply tougher driver enforcement during holiday periods; drive rested and stick to speed limits.
• Tours and attractions:
  • Some tours don’t operate on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and sometimes Easter Sunday or ANZAC morning.
  • National parks remain open, but visitor centers may have limited hours.
• Alcohol sales:
  • Good Friday typically brings strict limits on takeaway alcohol; service in venues may be restricted.
  • ANZAC Day often restricts alcohol sales until later in the morning.
• Events and crowds:
  • Parades, fireworks, surf carnivals, and sporting events draw large crowds—great atmosphere, but plan around road closures and queue times.

The Holiday Calendar by Season: When It Gets Busy

While public holidays are fixed (or announced annually), school holidays and weather drive demand too. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Summer (December–February):
  • Christmas/New Year peak. School holidays nationwide. Expect hot weather, bushfire risk in some regions, and packed beaches.
  • Australia Day adds another busy weekend in late January.
  • Booking horizon: 4–9 months ahead for coastal stays; longer for festive season city hotels with harbor views.
• Autumn (March–May):
  • Multiple state long weekends in March (VIC, WA, TAS, SA events) plus Canberra Day.
  • Easter and ANZAC Day often fall within weeks of each other—intense demand.
  • Shoulder-season sweet spot for cities and the Red Centre in May; watch Reconciliation Day (ACT) and Labour Day (QLD) in May.
• Winter (June–August):
  • King’s Birthday (June) long weekend kicks off the snow season in NSW/VIC.
  • NT Picnic Day (August) and Brisbane’s Ekka holiday draw regional demand.
  • Tropical north (Cairns, Darwin, Broome) is peak Dry Season—long weekends multiply pressure on rooms and tours.
• Spring (September–November):
  • AFL Grand Final Eve (VIC), WA King’s Birthday (late September), Labour Day in NSW/ACT/SA (October), and QLD King’s Birthday (October) create staggered long weekends.
  • Melbourne Cup Day (early November) fills city hotels and restaurants; some regional towns take alternate holidays then too.

Smart Booking Strategies: Beat the Crowds, Keep the Vibe

A little planning goes a long way. Use these tactics to transform public holidays from headache to highlight.

1. Lock in the anchors early

   • Book flights and high-demand hotels 3–9 months ahead for Christmas/New Year, Easter, and snow season.
   • Reserve rental cars early—one-way hires and SUVs often sell out first in holiday periods.

2. Use geography to your advantage

   • Holiday dates vary by state. If one state has a long weekend, hop to another where it’s a regular weekend for quieter attractions and better value.

3. Be flexible with your base

   • If coastal towns are full, consider nearby inland towns with easier availability and lower rates, then day-trip to beaches or wineries.

4. Plan your meals

   • Make dinner reservations over long weekends and on Easter/Christmas dates.
   • Stock up on basics before Good Friday and Christmas Day.

5. Build a “holiday-proof” itinerary

   • Schedule self-guided outdoor days (coastal walks, lookouts, markets) on major public holidays when trading is limited.
   • Save museum days and shopping for adjacent weekdays.

6. Book experiences that thrive in holiday energy

   • Dawn services on ANZAC Day
   • Sydney New Year’s Eve cruises
   • Opening weekend of the snow season
   • City festivals and fireworks on long weekends

7. Mind the minimum-night stays and surcharges

   • Many properties enforce 2–5 night minimums during peak holidays.
   • Expect public holiday surcharges at restaurants and some activities—budget accordingly.

8. Double-check operating days

   • Tours to wineries, islands, and wildlife parks may skip Good Friday and Christmas; confirm in advance.

9. Travel safe and calm

   • Expect slower road travel and increased enforcement during holiday periods.
   • Start earlier in the day to avoid peak traffic.

10. Consider travel insurance

• Protect prepaid costs in case of unforeseen disruptions during busy periods.

Holiday Highlights: Turning Dates into Destinations

If you lean into the holiday vibe, you’ll catch some of Australia’s best culture and scenery at their most alive.

• New Year’s Eve in Sydney
  • Iconic fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House; book vantage points or cruises early.
• Australia Day community events
  • Free concerts, waterfront festivities, and fireworks in some cities; also a time for reflection and learning about First Nations culture.
• Easter in the regions
  • Surf lifesaving carnivals, country fairs, and regional rodeos; ideal for road trips if you book ahead.
• ANZAC Day dawn services
  • Attend at the Australian War Memorial (Canberra), the Shrine of Remembrance (Melbourne), or local surf clubs and town cenotaphs.
• King’s Birthday long weekend (June in most states)
  • First tracks in the Snowy Mountains and Victorian Alps; cozy alpine pubs and mulled wine by the fire.
• Spring long weekends
  • Wildflowers in WA; wine festivals in SA and VIC; river cruises and hikes in milder weather.

State-by-State Travel Nuances You’ll Be Glad You Knew

A few local quirks can smooth your trip.

• NSW and ACT often run “double demerits” for driving offences during holiday periods—drive carefully. Other states use standard enforcement but may run targeted operations.
• VIC’s AFL Grand Final Eve holiday triggers a long weekend even non-sports fans feel—expect a festive urban buzz and busy regional roads.
• QLD’s King’s Birthday in October creates an extra spring surge just as the weather turns beach-perfect.
• WA’s spring King’s Birthday weekend commonly overlaps with the Perth Royal Show—family crowds, busy accommodation.
• SA’s wine regions are serene on many holidays—but expect closures on Good Friday and Christmas; plan winery lunches on other days.
• TAS’s regional show days can cause weekday closures in specific towns—check local calendars if you’re road-tripping.

Cultural Considerations: Travel With Respect

• Australia Day sensitivity: Understand that 26 January is a day of mourning and protest for many First Nations people. Be respectful around gatherings and follow local guidance.
• ANZAC Day: Dawn services are solemn; dress modestly, arrive quietly, and follow the lead of locals. Photography may be restricted during parts of the ceremony.
• Alcohol and public spaces: Many beaches and parks are alcohol-free or have restrictions, particularly during public holidays. Check signage.

Sample Long-Weekend Game Plans

Use these ideas as building blocks if a public holiday lands during your visit.

• City vibes + coastal escape (NSW Labour Day in October)

  • Fri: Sydney icons and Barangaroo dining
  • Sat: Coastal walk Bondi to Coogee; late lunch with ocean views
  • Sun: Day trip to the Royal National Park or the Hunter Valley (check winery trading hours)
  • Mon: Brunch, art museum, and harbor ferry before departure

• Snow kickoff (King’s Birthday in June, VIC/NSW)

  • Fri: Drive to Jindabyne or Bright; gear hire
  • Sat: First lifts at Thredbo/Perisher or Falls Creek/Hotham
  • Sun: Ski morning, alpine spa or brewery afternoon
  • Mon: Scenic detour home via lookouts and country cafés

• Wine and wildlife (Easter shoulder period, SA)

  • Thu: Adelaide laneway bars and Central Market
  • Fri: Self-cater picnic; coastal walk; check closures
  • Sat: Barossa or McLaren Vale tastings with a booked lunch
  • Sun: Kangaroo Island day trip or Adelaide Hills wildlife park
  • Mon: Brunch, gallery, and river stroll

Budgeting and Money-Saving Tips Around Holidays

• Book early deals: Early-bird rates can save 10–30% on rooms and car rentals.
• Travel midweek: Fly Tuesday or Wednesday to dodge holiday weekend surcharges.
• Use nearby airports: Consider Gold Coast vs Brisbane, Avalon vs Melbourne (Tullamarine), or Newcastle vs Sydney if prices soar.
• Public transport cap: City transit often has daily or weekly caps; leverage them on public holiday weekends for cost-effective sightseeing.
• BYO basics: Snacks and drinks for road trips and Good Friday/Christmas closures can save money and stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are public holidays the same across Australia?
  • No. Some are national (e.g., ANZAC Day, Christmas), but many are state-specific or fall on different dates by state (e.g., Labour Day, King’s Birthday).
• Will everything be closed on public holidays?
  • Not everything. Tourist attractions often stay open, but Good Friday and Christmas Day have the most closures. Always check hours.
• Do restaurants always add a surcharge?
  • Many do on public holidays (commonly 10–20%). Menus should note it.
• Is public transport still running?
  • Yes, but on a Sunday/public holiday timetable with reduced frequency. Extra services may run for big events.
• Can I buy alcohol on Good Friday?
  • Takeaway alcohol is often restricted; venue service can be limited. Rules vary by state—plan ahead.

A Note on Planning Tools and Official Sources

Dates shift year to year, and state rules differ. Before finalizing plans, check:

• State government public holiday calendars
• City event calendars (e.g., fireworks, parades, festivals)
• Public transport holiday timetables
• Specific attraction and tour operator announcements for holiday hours

The Bottom Line: Make Holidays Work for You

Public holidays in Australia can be a traveler’s best friend or biggest hurdle—sometimes both at once. Expect vibrant events, beachy long-weekend energy, and iconic cultural moments. Also expect higher prices, busy roads, and changed trading hours. The trick is timing and preparation.

• Book flights, rooms, and cars early for Christmas/New Year, Easter, and long weekends.
• Use state-by-state differences to sidestep the worst crowds—or to chase the best festivals.
• Plan self-guided days on closure-heavy holidays, and lock in dining ahead.
• Embrace local culture: dawn services, fireworks, snow openings, coastal carnivals.

With smart planning, you’ll catch Australia at its liveliest, without the stress. Ready to turn a public holiday into the highlight of your Australia trip? Choose your dates, reserve the essentials, and let the celebrations set the scene for unforgettable travel.