Labour Day in Australia
Labour Day is observed on different dates in each state, celebrating workers' rights.
Labour Day 2026 by state
Labour Day dates in 2026
Labour Day
Monday
Labour Day
Monday
Labour Day
Monday
Labour Day
Monday
History
Labour Day celebrates the achievement of the eight-hour working day, a reform first won by stonemasons in Melbourne in 1856. Australia was one of the first countries in the world to achieve this milestone for workers.
How Australians celebrate
Labour Day is observed on different dates in each state, reflecting the different histories of the labour movement across Australia. In most states, it's treated as a straightforward long weekend rather than a day of active celebration, though some union-organised events still take place.
Labour Day in other years
Frequently asked questions
When is Labour Day in 2026?
Labour Day 2026 spans Monday 2 March to Monday 5 October 2026. See the full dates table above for each individual day.
Is Labour Day a public holiday in all states?
No, Labour Day is observed in NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, TAS, ACT, SA only. It is not a national public holiday.
Do I get a day off for Labour Day?
Labour Day is a gazetted public holiday in NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, TAS, ACT, SA. Most workers are entitled to a day off with pay. If you work on the day, penalty rates typically apply as per your award or enterprise agreement.
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