Public Holidays in Australia

Public holidays in Australia are integral to the nation's labour laws, offering employees designated days to observe significant national events and traditions. There are different holidays recognised across the different territories. Below is a general list of public holidays recognised all over Australia.

Note: Dates for Good Friday and Easter Monday vary each year. Additionally, states and territories may have additional local holidays or variations; for instance, Labour Day and the King's Birthday are observed on different dates depending on the region.

Are Public Holidays in Australia Paid?

1. Paid Leave for Public Holidays
   

   Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to be absent from work on a public holiday and receive their base pay rate for their ordinary hours. If a public holiday falls on a day an employee would normally work, they should be paid their base rate for that day. Casual employees, however, are generally not entitled to payment for public holidays unless they work on the day.
   
   

2. Overtime Pay for Working on a Public Holiday
   

   Employees who work on a public holiday are typically entitled to penalty rates, which are higher pay rates to compensate for working during these times. The specific penalty rate depends on the applicable award or enterprise agreement but often ranges from 150% to 250% of the standard rate. For example, under certain awards, full-time and part-time employees may receive 250% of their ordinary hourly rate for work performed on a public holiday.

Can you substitute a public holiday?

Employers and employees can agree to substitute a public holiday for another day. This flexibility allows for accommodating cultural or religious observances not recognised as official holidays. Such agreements should be documented in writing to ensure clarity for both parties.

Is Annual Leave the same as Public Holiday Leave?

No. Full-time and part-time workers get 4 weeks of annual leave for every 12 months worked. Casual employees do not get annual leave. Annual leave starts accumulating from an employee's first day. They can take leave as soon as they accumulate it.

Conclusion

Knowing your rights regarding public holidays can help protect you from unfair labour practices. If you are uncertain about your pay entitlements, review your employment contract or consult labour law regulations.