14 October 2026
9 minutes
Australia Public Holidays 2027: How to Maximise Your Annual Leave
If you plan smart, Australia's public holidays can be a pass to maximum time off for minimal annual leave.
Australia's public holidays offer more than just a day away from work. With a little forward planning, they can become the starting point for a long weekend, a regional escape, or even a week-long holiday.
From summer breaks on the coast to autumn wine-country getaways and winter retreats in the mountains, the right combination of public holidays and annual leave can unlock more time to explore Australia's diverse destinations.
We've rounded up Australia's national and state-specific public holidays for 2027, along with tips for maximising your annual leave and recommendations on where to travel during your extended break.
At a glance: Australia-wide public holidays in 2027
| Public holiday | Date |
| New Year's Day | Friday, 1 January 2027 |
| Australia Day | Tuesday, 26 January 2027 |
| Good Friday | Friday, 26 March 2027 |
| Easter Monday | Monday, 29 March 2027 |
| ANZAC Day | Sunday, 25 April 2027* |
| Christmas Day | Saturday, 25 December 2027 |
| Boxing Day | Sunday, 26 December 2027 |
* Some states and territories observe ANZAC Day on Monday, 26 April 2027 when it falls on a Sunday. For the latest information, check the official public holiday calendars.
New Year's Day
Date: Friday 1 January 2027
New Year's Day in 2027 falls on a Friday, creating an automatic three-day weekend for many Australians.
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave from:
Monday 4 January
Tuesday 5 January
Wednesday 6 January
Thursday 7 January
Friday 8 January
You'll enjoy 10 consecutive days off from Friday 1 January to Sunday 10 January using five days of annual leave.
Where to go
January is one of the best times to visit the Gold Coast. Long summer days, warm ocean temperatures, and a packed calendar of outdoor activities give you plenty of ways to fill a longer holiday.
For a stay that suits a full 10-day holiday, consider Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach. Located moments from the beach, the hotel features lagoon-style pools, a fitness centre and multiple dining options, making it easy to settle in for a longer stay.
Australia Day
Date: Tuesday 26 January 2027
Australia Day falls on a Tuesday, making it one of the most valuable public holidays on the calendar.
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Monday 25 January
Wednesday 27 January
Thursday 28 January
Friday 29 January
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 23 January to Sunday 31 January using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Late January is one of Tasmania's most appealing travel periods, with long daylight hours, mild weather, and excellent conditions for exploring the state's national parks, wineries, and coastal towns.
For a longer Australia Day getaway, consider The Sebel Launceston. Located in the heart of Launceston, the hotel offers spacious suite-style accommodation and easy access to Cataract Gorge, the Tamar Valley wine region, and northern Tasmania's many road-trip routes, making it an excellent base for a summer escape.
Good Friday and Easter Monday
Dates:
Good Friday: Friday 26 March 2027
Easter Monday: Monday 29 March 2027
Together they create a four-day Easter weekend.
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 30 March
Wednesday 31 March
Thursday 1 April
Friday 2 April
You'll enjoy 10 consecutive days off from Friday 26 March to Sunday 4 April using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Easter coincides with Margaret River's harvest season, giving visitors the chance to pair coastal walks with winery visits, seasonal dining experiences, and some of the region's freshest local produce.
Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River Region is particularly suited to an Easter holiday. Spacious accommodation, a resort pool, day spa, fitness facilities, and direct access to Bunker Bay mean you can comfortably spend the entire long weekend without needing to move around constantly.
ANZAC Day
Date: Sunday 25 April 2027
Many states and territories observe ANZAC Day on Monday 26 April 2027, creating a long weekend.
Make it a longer break
If your state observes the Monday public holiday, take annual leave on:
Tuesday 27 April
Wednesday 28 April
Thursday 29 April
Friday 30 April
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 24 April to Sunday 2 May using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Late April brings some of the most comfortable weather of the year to travel to Uluru. Cooler temperatures open up opportunities for sunrise walks, cultural tours, and longer days exploring the Red Centre.
For an immersive stay, The Lost Camel Hotel offers convenient access to Uluru's key attractions and the experiences within Ayers Rock Resort. It works particularly well for travellers using the long weekend as the centrepiece of a longer outback holiday.
Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Dates:
Christmas Day: Saturday 25 December 2027
Boxing Day: Sunday 26 December 2027
Additional public holidays are observed on Monday 27 December and Tuesday 28 December in most states and territories.
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Wednesday 29 December
Thursday 30 December
Friday 31 December
You'll enjoy 11 consecutive days off from Saturday 25 December to Tuesday 4 January 2028 using just three days of annual leave.
Where to go
The Christmas and New Year period is one of the best times to enjoy Noosa's beaches, national parks, and outdoor dining scene. Long sunny days and a relaxed holiday atmosphere make it a classic Australian summer escape.
For an extended festive-season break, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas offers spacious accommodation, multiple pools, wellness facilities and easy access to Hastings Street and Noosa National Park. The additional space and resort-style facilities make it especially appealing for travellers staying beyond a standard weekend.
State and territory public holidays in Australia for 2027
In addition to Australia's national public holidays, every state and territory observes extra holidays throughout the year. These dates vary across the country and can create valuable opportunities for long weekends, regional getaways, and extended annual leave breaks.
New South Wales public holidays 2027
New South Wales enjoys a mix of winter and spring public holidays, creating ideal opportunities to escape the city and explore some of the state's best regional destinations.
King's Birthday
Date: Monday 14 June 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 15 June
Wednesday 16 June
Thursday 17 June
Friday 18 June
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 12 June to Sunday 20 June using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Winter is one of the most atmospheric times to visit the Blue Mountains. Crisp mornings, cosy cafés and dramatic sandstone escarpments make it a popular cold-weather getaway from Sydney.
For a memorable winter retreat, consider Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains - MGallery Collection. Set within the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, the resort offers indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multiple dining venues, and a day spa, making it ideal for a longer stay.
Labour Day
Date: Monday 4 October 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 5 October
Wednesday 6 October
Thursday 7 October
Friday 8 October
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 2 October to Sunday 10 October using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Spring sees the Hunter Valley vineyards at their most vibrant, pairing scenic views with cellar-door experiences and regional dining.
For a relaxing stay, Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens offers resort-style facilities, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and easy access to the region's cellar doors.
Victoria public holidays 2027
Victoria's state public holidays are perfectly positioned across autumn and spring, making them ideal for wine-region escapes, coastal getaways, and countryside adventures.
Labour Day
Date: Monday 8 March 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 9 March
Wednesday 10 March
Thursday 11 March
Friday 12 March
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 6 March to Sunday 14 March using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
March is one of the best times to visit the Mornington Peninsula, where quieter beaches and mild conditions make it easy to explore the coastline between the peak summer season and winter.
For a longer coastal break, Peppers Moonah Links Resort offers spacious accommodation, golf courses, a swimming pool, and wellness facilities.
Melbourne Cup Day
Date: Tuesday 2 November 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Monday 1 November
Wednesday 3 November
Thursday 4 November
Friday 5 November
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 30 October to Sunday 7 November using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Spring is a beautiful time to explore the Yarra Valley, with gardens in bloom and vineyard views at their best.
For a premium countryside stay, Peppers Marysville offers mountain views, wellness facilities, and easy access to the region's wineries and walking trails.
Queensland public holidays 2027
Queensland's public holidays fall during some of the state's best weather, offering excellent opportunities to explore tropical beaches, islands, and reef destinations.
Labour Day
Date: Monday 3 May 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 4 May
Wednesday 5 May
Thursday 6 May
Friday 7 May
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 1 May to Sunday 9 May using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
May is one of the best months to visit Port Douglas in Tropical North Queensland, with lower humidity and excellent conditions for snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef.
For a relaxing tropical escape, Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa features spacious accommodation, lagoon pools, a day spa, and easy access to Four Mile Beach.
King's Birthday
Date: Monday 4 October 2027
Queensland celebrates the King's Birthday separately from most other states.
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 5 October
Wednesday 6 October
Thursday 7 October
Friday 8 October
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 2 October to Sunday 10 October using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
October brings warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and excellent boating conditions, making it one of the best times of year to visit the Whitsundays.
For an island-inspired getaway, Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach offers resort facilities, a lagoon-style pool and easy access to day trips through the Whitsunday Islands.
South Australia public holidays 2027
South Australia's public holiday calendar aligns with some of the state's most enjoyable travel seasons, particularly for food, wine, and regional escapes.
Adelaide Cup Day
Date: Monday 8 March 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 9 March
Wednesday 10 March
Thursday 11 March
Friday 12 March
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 6 March to Sunday 14 March using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
Early autumn is one of the most enjoyable times to visit the Barossa Valley, with warm days and vineyard activity beginning in earnest.
For a boutique wine-country escape, Novotel Barossa Valley Resort offers vineyard views, a swimming pool, day spa, and spacious suites.
Western Australia public holidays 2027
Western Australia's state holidays are well timed for exploring the state's spectacular coastline, wine regions, and outdoor attractions throughout the year.
Western Australia Day
Date: Monday 7 June 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 8 June
Wednesday 9 June
Thursday 10 June
Friday 11 June
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 5 June to Sunday 13 June using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
June is a fantastic time to visit Busselton. Cooler temperatures make it ideal for walking the famous Busselton Jetty, exploring Geographe Bay, and discovering the South West's food and wine regions. It's also the beginning of the whale-watching season, adding another reason to plan a winter getaway.
For a relaxed long-weekend escape, consider The Sebel Busselton. Located opposite Geographe Bay, the property offers spacious apartment-style accommodation, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, tennis courts, and direct beach access. The extra space and resort facilities make it particularly well suited to an extended Western Australia Day break.
Tasmania public holidays 2027
Tasmania's additional public holiday occurs during one of the island state's most beautiful travel seasons, with mild weather and excellent conditions for road trips.
Eight Hours Day
Date: Monday 8 March 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 9 March
Wednesday 10 March
Thursday 11 March
Friday 12 March
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday, 6 March to Sunday, 14 March using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
March is one of the best times to visit Tasmania's east coast. Warm days, comfortable walking conditions and fewer visitors make it ideal for a Tasmanian road trip to explore Wineglass Bay, coastal trails, and the seaside village of Coles Bay.
For a convenient base before or after your road trip, consider Mövenpick Hotel Hobart. Located in the heart of Hobart, the hotel offers modern guest rooms and easy access to Salamanca Place, Battery Point, and the city's waterfront dining precinct. It's a great option for travellers extending their Eight Hours Day long weekend into a broader Tasmanian escape.
Australian Capital Territory public holidays 2027
The ACT's Canberra Day long weekend happens at the beginning of autumn, creating the perfect excuse for a regional escape before the cooler months arrive.
Canberra Day
Date: Monday 8 March 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 9 March
Wednesday, 10 March
Thursday 11 March
Friday 12 March
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 6 March to Sunday 14 March using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
March is an ideal time to plan a trip to Orange. Early autumn brings crisp mornings, vineyard views and harvest season across one of Australia's leading cool-climate wine regions, with acclaimed restaurants, cellar doors, and scenic countryside all within easy reach.
For an extended Canberra Day getaway, consider Mercure Orange. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers spacious rooms, an onsite restaurant and easy access to Orange's wineries, food experiences and local attractions, making it an excellent base for a long-weekend escape.
Northern Territory public holidays 2027
The Northern Territory's Picnic Day falls during the dry season, when clear skies and comfortable temperatures make it one of the best times of year to explore the Top End.
Picnic Day
Date: Monday 2 August 2027
Make it a longer break
Take annual leave on:
Tuesday 3 August
Wednesday 4 August
Thursday 5 August
Friday 6 August
You'll enjoy nine consecutive days off from Saturday 31 July to Sunday 8 August using four days of annual leave.
Where to go
August falls in the heart of the dry season, making it one of the best times to visit Kakadu National Park. Lower humidity, sunny days, and accessible walking trails create ideal conditions for exploring waterfalls, wetlands and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.
For a comfortable base before or after your adventure, consider Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. Located in Jabiru, the hotel features a resort-style pool, tropical gardens and easy access to many of Kakadu's most popular attractions, making it an excellent choice for an extended Picnic Day getaway.
Plan your 2027 public holiday escapes
With so many opportunities to extend your annual leave in 2027, now is the perfect time to start planning ahead. Whether you're dreaming of a beach holiday, wine-country retreat, or outback adventure, you'll find Accor hotels in some of Australia's most popular destinations.
Book your stay directly through ALL.com or the ALL Accor app for the best available rates, and join the free ALL Accor loyalty programme to access exclusive member offers, earn Reward points, and enjoy benefits that make every trip even more rewarding
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Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
Broadbeach, Australia
A breathtaking 5 star hotel on the Gold Coast, Sofitel Broadbeach is just 300m away from the beach. Our Broadbeach accommodation offers the ideal base for both business and leisure travellers. This spectacular luxury Gold Coast hotel is within easy reach of Broadbeach s many restaurants, bars and shops, as well as The Star Casino and Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach is minutes from Surfers Paradise and a short drive away from Gold Coast airport.
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The Sebel Launceston
Launceston, Australia
The Sebel Launceston combines elegant charm with style and convenience making it the ideal accommodation for both business and leisure guests. The hotel offers 52 one, two and three-bedroom suites with spacious bedrooms and separate bathrooms as well as a private balcony. To complement our accommodation, the property incorporates 2 professional conference spaces as well as the award winning Bluestone Bar and Kitchen located on the ground floor.
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Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River Region
Bunker Bay, Australia
Just over three hour's drive south of Perth, Pullman Bunker Bay Resort offers the ultimate getaway. Nestled on the white sands of Bunker Bay, our 5 star Margaret River Region resort boasts an absolute beachfront location with direct beach access. Guests can relax, recharge & unwind. Look to explore the surrounding area including nearby Dunsborough, Yallingup and the amazing Margaret River wine region. Avid scuba divers cannot miss the beautiful Geographe Bay, just an hour from our Margaret River resort.
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The Lost Camel Hotel - A member of Mercure Hotels
Yulara, Australia
The Lost Camel Hotel is a contemporary, boutique-style stay in the heart of Ayers Rock Resort, just 20 minutes from Uluru. Featuring a stylish mix of Aboriginal and urban design, it offers a unique and vibrant accommodation experience. Rooms are compact, bright and modern, with various configurations available. Please note that all rooms are designed without external windows, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.
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Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas
Noosa, Australia
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is nestled in the serenity of Noosa National Park. Spend your days lazing in the inviting free-form swimming pool, pamper yourself in Stephanie's Ocean Spa, or just take it easy. World class shopping and restaurants are a short 500 metre stroll away in bustling hub of Hastings Street and Laguna Beach. At this premium Noosa accommodation you'll find the ultimate in eco-conscious sustainability with solar energy and rainwater irrigation.
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Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains - MGallery Collection
Leura, Australia
Relax, explore & engage your senses at the Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. Located in a World Heritage listed area, our Blue Mountains accommodation is 90 minutes west of Sydney. Fairmont Resort features 224 comfortable rooms & 23 flexible event spaces. The Resort includes indoor & outdoor pool, tennis court, KidsZone, three restaurants, award-winning whiskey bar and award-winning Ubika Day Spa. Enjoy scenic walking tracks, golf at the adjacent Leura Golf Course or visit Leura Village & Katoomba.
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Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens
Pokolbin, Australia
Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens is a premium 4.5 star property boasting the prime Hunter Valley central location. Walk to Hunter Valley Gardens, 5 cellar doors, restaurants, cafes and shops all from the convenience of your hotel room. The Resort features elements bar & dining, 72 well appointed rooms, a pool, sauna, spa, tennis courts and function space for conference and weddings. Take a break in the Hunter Valley to enjoy fine food and wine with Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens.
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Peppers Moonah Links Resort Mornington Peninsula
Fingal, Australia
Located on the beautiful Victorian coastline, Peppers Moonah Links Resort is less than a 90 minute drive from Melbourne CBD and neighbours the award winning Peninsula Hot Springs. The resort offers stylish deluxe rooms and suites, with views overlooking the Open championship golf course and central putting green. All rooms feature heating and cooling, private balconies, free WiFi and Smart TV's. The resort facilities include versatile meeting spaces, heated outdoor pool, gymnasium and putting green.
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Peppers Marysville
Marysville, Australia
Peppers Marysville a 90 minute drive from Melbourne offers contemporary styled accommodation. Unwind in the tranquil riverside location before exploring one of Australia's most beautiful regions the Yarra Valley. With 100 rooms, explore the natural beauty of Yarra Ranges National Park, Cathedral Ranges or Lake Mountain before relaxing poolside or recharging in our restaurant and bar.
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Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa
Port Douglas, Australia
There's no reason to do anything but gaze at the stunning 3000m2 lagoon style pool in the centre of Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa with a delicious cocktail in your hand. On second thought, there are several reasons: beautiful Four Mile Beach, a treatment at Vie Spa, first-rated cuisine at ALUCO Restaurant and Bar, the village of Port Douglas and exploring the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef... That is, when you're ready to emerge from your villa's private plunge pool.
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Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach
Airlie Beach, Australia
Discover the magical Whitsundays at Mantra Club Croc, located on Shute Harbour Road only five minutes drive to the main street of Airlie Beach. Housed in a traditional Queenslander, hotel rooms have been designed with coastal inspired decor and modern amenities. Boasting a large lagoon pool with adjoining spa, tropical gardens, bistro style restaurants, gym, conference facilities, there's also free parking for your car boat or trailer, along with free Wi-Fi.
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Novotel Barossa Valley Resort
Barossa Valley, Australia
Escape to the heart of the Barossa Valley at Novotel Barossa Valley Resort, where contemporary comfort meets breathtaking vineyard views. All rooms offer stunning panoramas, while the outdoor heated pool, indulgent dining at The Cellar Kitchen, and relaxing day spa create the perfect retreat. With 24-hour reception and a prime location near world-class wineries and golf courses, it's the ideal destination for leisure, events, or a serene getaway. Discover the ultimate Barossa experience today!
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The Sebel Busselton
Busselton, Australia
The Sebel Busselton offers a scenic, relaxed getaway for families and couples alike. Positioned 2.5 hours south of Perth, the hotel is ideally located for guests wishing to enjoy the renowned wineries, restaurants and galleries of the Margaret River region and the swimming, snorkeling and diving opportunities in Geographe Bay. Along with modern self contained apartments, the hotel features a wide range of leisure facilities, from tennis courts to swimming pools.
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Mövenpick Hotel Hobart
Hobart, Australia
Discover Hobart's rich culture, history and award winning cuisine with Mövenpick Hotel Hobart. Many of our elegant rooms and suites offer sweeping views of the spectacular harbour and city, allowing you to soak in Hobart from above. With meeting and event spaces for your next function, on-site restaurant - Tesoro, and access to hotel facilities such as a fitness centre and free wifi, Mövenpick Hotel Hobart encapsulates the spirit of Hobart and makes an ideal base for your next holiday or staycation.
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Mercure Orange
Orange, Australia
Experience the best of regional New South Wales at Mercure Orange, located in the heart of Orange's CBD on Wiradjuri Country. Discover one of the region's celebrated food and wine destinations, with acclaimed wineries and a vibrant arts scene nearby. Part of the Orange Ex-Services' Club Group, the hotel offers contemporary comfort, quality dining, and a strong commitment to sustainability and supporting local producers.
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Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Jabiru, Australia
Kakadu Crocodile Hotel owned and operated by Journey Beyond is located in Kakadu National Park. Situated in the township of Jabiru, this hotel is the perfect base to start exploring Kakadu's most significant natural attractions such as Ubirr, Jim Jim and Twin Falls, Gunlom Falls, Cahills Crossing and Mamukala Wetlands. Cool off in the outdoor pool, the perfect oasis for relaxing in between discovery tours before feasting on Kakadu bush tucker and dining at the Manjmukmuk Restaurant and Bar.
FAQs about public holidays in Australia
Are public holiday dates the same every year in Australia?
Are public holiday dates the same every year in Australia?
While some public holidays in Australia fall on fixed dates, such as Australia Day and Christmas Day, others change each year. Easter, ANZAC Day substitute holidays, and several state-specific holidays can fall on different dates annually.
When should I book accommodation for Australian public holiday weekends?
When should I book accommodation for Australian public holiday weekends?
If you’re maximising your annual leave by planning travel around Australian public holidays, it’s important to book your hotels as soon as possible. Popular destinations can book out months in advance, especially during Easter, Christmas, long weekends, and school holiday periods. Booking early gives you the widest choice of accommodation and often the best available rates.
Do Australian public holidays that fall on weekends get moved to another day?
Do Australian public holidays that fall on weekends get moved to another day?
It depends on the state or territory. When a public holiday falls on a weekend, some jurisdictions in Australia observe an additional public holiday on the following weekday, while others do not. Check your local government website before making travel or annual leave plans.
What should I consider before travelling during Australia’s public holidays?
What should I consider before travelling during Australia’s public holidays?
Public holidays are often among the busiest travel periods of the year in Australia. It's worth checking accommodation availability, restaurant bookings, attraction opening hours, and transport schedules before you travel, particularly during Easter and the Christmas to New Year period.
Do attractions and restaurants stay open in Australia on public holidays?
Do attractions and restaurants stay open in Australia on public holidays?
Many attractions, restaurants, and tourism operators remain open during Australia’s public holiday periods, although trading hours can vary. It's worth checking opening times and making reservations in advance, particularly during Easter, Christmas, and major long weekends.
Travel ideas
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