Australia Public Holidays Guide
Complete guide to public holidays in Australia, including national and state holidays, penalty rates for working on holidays, and your entitlements.
National Public Holidays
Australia has 8 national public holidays: New Year's Day, Australia Day, Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day, Queen's Birthday, and Christmas Day. States and territories add additional days.
State & Territory Holidays
Each state and territory has additional public holidays, including Melbourne Cup Day (VIC), Canberra Day (ACT), and Recreation Day (TAS). Total holidays typically range from 10-13 days per year.
Entitlement on Public Holidays
If you normally work on a public holiday, you're entitled to be absent and receive your base pay for ordinary hours. You can agree to work and receive penalty rates.
Penalty Rates
If you work on a public holiday, you're typically entitled to penalty rates—often double time or time-and-a-half plus a day off in lieu. Check your award or agreement for specific rates.