BREAKING NEWS: Western Australia is set to introduce two new public holidays starting in 2028, a significant change that will modernize the state’s holiday calendar. Premier Roger Cook confirmed that Easter Saturday and Show Day will be added, increasing the total number of public holidays from 11 to 13 each year.
This announcement comes after the WA Government received over 10,000 submissions from businesses, unions, and community members advocating for a more reflective holiday schedule. Premier Cook stated that these changes aim to align WA’s public holidays with other states, enhancing both community values and economic resilience.
The Easter Saturday holiday will now join the existing holidays of Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, aligning WA with all other states and territories except Tasmania. Show Day is set for the first Monday of the September/October school holidays, although regional councils can opt for an alternative date in September.
In addition to the new holidays, several existing holidays will be shifted. The current King’s Birthday holiday, held in late September, will move to the second Monday in June, aligning with every state except Queensland. Meanwhile, Labour Day will transition to the second Monday in March, aligning with Victoria, and will be adjusted to the third Monday in March during state election years to avoid long weekends affecting voting.
Moreover, WA Day will change from the first Monday in June to the second Monday in November, further modernizing the holiday calendar. “These changes are about modernizing WA’s public holiday calendar in a way that reflects the needs and values of our community,” Cook emphasized.
The WA Government will introduce the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 this week, marking a pivotal shift in how holidays are observed in the state. The Premier expressed gratitude for the community’s feedback, stating it played a vital role in shaping a calendar that balances economic needs with the well-being of workers.
This overhaul is expected to have widespread implications for businesses and residents alike, making it essential for everyone in Western Australia to stay informed about these upcoming changes. As the bill moves forward, the community will be watching closely for further developments.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this significant legislative change!
