Western Australians will get two new public holidays a year, in a move to modernise the state’s holiday calendar.
From 2028, the mining state will shift the dates of three existing holidays, and add Easter Saturday and ‘Show Day’ as new public holidays, increasing the state’s count from 11 to 13 public holidays a year.
The changes are an attempt to align WA with the rest of the nation, according to WA Premier Roger Cook.
“These changes will make life easier for families and businesses, and the state will be much better,” the premier said.
Easter Saturday will finally be recognised as a public holiday in WA, in line with every other state and territory except Tasmania.
Show Day will mark the beginning of the September/October school holidays, with the definitive date to be determined.
The King’s Birthday holiday, currently held in late September, will be shifted to the second Monday in June, in line with every state except Queensland.
Labour Day, which is currently on the first day of March, will shift to the second Monday of March, except in years of a state election, where it would be the third Monday.
WA Day will also be moved from June to the second Monday of November for better weather, according to the premier.
The WA Government will introduce the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 this week, following an influx of submissions from businesses, not-for-profit organisations, peak bodies, unions and members of the broader community.
The premier added that the revised holidays were selected to “better match the rhythm of life in WA.”
“These changes are about modernising WA’s public holiday calendar in a way that reflects the needs and values of our community.
“Striking the right balance was essential and I believe this new schedule ensures our economy remains the strongest in the nation, while workers get the break they deserve.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to the consultation. Your feedback has played a vital role in shaping a modern, inclusive and practical public holiday calendar for Western Australia.”
Image: Shutterstock
