AFL Grand Final Eve 2026: Victoria's Public Holiday Date

Victoria's AFL Grand Final Eve public holiday returns in 2026. It is a full state-wide public holiday — every Victorian worker gets the day, not just one sector — but the exact date is not yet confirmed, because it is tied to the AFL's finals schedule.

When is AFL Grand Final Eve in 2026?

The holiday is the Friday before the AFL Grand Final, which is usually the last Saturday in September. For 2026 that points to Friday 25 September (before a Grand Final on Saturday 26 September). Treat that as the expected date, not the final one: the AFL confirms its Grand Final date only after the home-and-away season, and the Victorian Government then gazettes the public holiday. Until both happen, calendars list it as "to be advised".

Is AFL Grand Final Eve a public holiday?

Yes — in Victoria only, and unlike a restricted day such as the NSW Bank Holiday, it is a full public holiday. Most Victorian employees are entitled to the day off, and those who work it are generally entitled to public-holiday penalty rates under their award or agreement. It does not apply in any other state or territory.

Why it's worth planning around

A Friday public holiday is the easiest long weekend on the calendar: it creates an automatic three-day weekend with no leave required. Add the Monday and you have a four-day break for a single leave day. Because it lands at the end of September, it also overlaps the spring school holidays in much of the country, which makes it a popular — and busy — travel window.

What to do now

Pencil in the last Friday of September 2026 and confirm it once the AFL fixture and the Victorian gazettal are out. In the meantime, compare the rest of the year on the Victoria Long Weekends page and check the confirmed dates on Victoria Public Holidays.

Frequently asked questions

What day is the AFL Grand Final public holiday in 2026?

It is the Friday before the Grand Final — expected to be Friday 25 September 2026, but confirmed only once the AFL sets its finals schedule and the Victorian Government gazettes the date.

Is AFL Grand Final Eve a public holiday in 2026?

Yes, in Victoria. It is a full state-wide public holiday for Victorian workers; it is not observed in any other state or territory.

Do I get the day off for AFL Grand Final Eve?

Most Victorian employees do. If you work the day, public-holiday penalty rates generally apply under your award or enterprise agreement. Outside Victoria it is an ordinary working day.

Why isn't the 2026 date confirmed yet?

The public holiday is tied to the AFL Grand Final, and the AFL confirms that date only after the home-and-away season. The Victorian Government then gazettes the holiday, so the exact Friday stays provisional until both are finalised.