Bank holidays are significant as they provide a break from the routine and an opportunity for employees to rest and spend time with family. In Australia, these holidays vary by state and territory, in addition to nationwide holidays.

Nationwide Bank Holidays

*King’s Birthday – In most states this is celebrated in June. However, Western Australia and Queensland have decided to move the holiday to a different date to avoid clashes with other state holidays.

*Melbourne Cup Day – While this one is celebrated in the state of Victoria, some other territories observe this as a public holiday. It is important to look up state-specific announcements to know if this is a non-working holiday in your area. 

Learn more about Australia’s Holidays

What is Australia Day? 

• Australia Day, celebrated on January 26th, commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788. It’s a day to celebrate Australian culture, diversity, and history.

Fun Fact: Australia Day marks the beginning of the European settlement of Australia, but it has also become a day of controversy, with some Indigenous Australians referring to it as “Invasion Day” due to the negative impact colonisation had on their communities.

What is Anzac Day?

• Anzac Day, observed on April 25th, honors the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli during World War I. It has since evolved to commemorate all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

Fun Fact: The dawn service, held at dawn to symbolise the landing at Gallipoli, is a significant part of Anzac Day commemorations, with ceremonies held across Australia and New Zealand.

What is Melbourne Cup Day?

• Melbourne Cup Day, held on the first Tuesday of November, is one of Australia’s most famous horse racing events. It’s often referred to as “the race that stops a nation” due to its popularity.

Fun Fact: The Melbourne Cup race has a long history dating back to 1861 and is known for attracting spectators from around the world. It’s not only about horse racing but also about fashion, with attendees dressing up in their finest attire for the occasion.

• Who is the Melbourne Cup Favourite as of May 2024?: Circle of Fire is the Cup favourite as of May 15, 2024. This four-year-old stallion became the crowd favourite after it won the Sydney Cup on Day 2 of The Championships at Randwick.

Melbourne Cup Winners Over the Years

Source: punters.com.au

State-Specific Bank Holidays

Australia has a variety of bank holidays, with seven nationwide holidays and additional state-specific holidays. The total number of holidays varies by state, with the maximum being in states with unique holidays like the Melbourne Cup Day in Victoria and the Adelaide Cup Day in South Australia.

*Royal Queensland Show – Brisbane area only

*King’s Birthday – Some regional areas in WA hold the King’s Birthday public holiday on a different date

*Royal Hobart Regatta – Only observed in certain areas of the state

*Easter Tuesday – Generally for Tasmanian Public Service only

*Recreation Day – Areas of the state that don’t observe Royal Hobart Regatta

AU Holidays vs Other Countries

To put Australia’s bank holidays in perspective, here’s a comparison with 10 other major countries:

1. United States: 10 federal holidays

2. United Kingdom: 8 public holidays

3. Canada: 9 national holidays

4. Germany: 13-16 holidays (varies by state)

5. France: 11 public holidays

6. Japan: 16 national holidays

7. China: 7 public holidays (with additional holiday weeks)

8. India: 3 national holidays (plus numerous state and religious holidays)

9. Brazil: 12 national holidays

10. Russia: 14 public holidays

Australia has a well-distributed set of bank holidays that provide ample breaks throughout the year. When compared internationally, Australia’s number of holidays is fairly average, with countries like Japan and Germany having more, while others like the United Kingdom and Canada have fewer. These holidays not only reflect the country’s cultural and historical events but also ensure a balanced work-life schedule for its citizens.