Western Australia Day Public Holiday
Western Australia Day is a public holiday on the first Monday in June, celebrating the founding of the Swan River Colony.
Western Australia Day 2026 by state
History
Western Australia Day, formerly Foundation Day, commemorates the founding of the Swan River Colony on 1 June 1829. It was renamed to Western Australia Day in 2012 to be more inclusive of all Western Australians.
How Australians celebrate
WA Day provides a winter long weekend that other states don't share. Community events, cultural celebrations, and the WA Day Festival are held across the state. It falls in early June, providing a useful break in an otherwise long stretch without public holidays.
Western Australia Day in other years
Frequently asked questions
When is Western Australia Day in 2026?
Western Australia Day 2026 falls on Monday 1 June 2026.
Is Western Australia Day a public holiday in all states?
No, Western Australia Day is observed in WA only. It is not a national public holiday.
Do I get a day off for Western Australia Day?
Western Australia Day is a gazetted public holiday in WA. 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.
Related tools
Picked for Western Australia.
Is today a public holiday?
WACheck today's public holiday status in every state and territory.
Printable calendar
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Calendar subscriptions
Add public holidays to Apple Calendar, Google Calendar or Outlook.
Daylight saving
WASee when the clocks change and which Australian states observe daylight saving.
