In Australia public holidays vary by state and territory: on top of the national ones (such as New Year's Day, Australia Day or Anzac Day) each state adds its own, so the calendar changes depending on where you are.
In 2026, Australia has 27 official public holidays. The month with the most holidays is April, with 7. 2 months have no public holiday at all.
There are 21 potential long weekends this year, from holidays landing on a Monday or Friday. Meanwhile, 4 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday.
The longest stretch without a public holiday runs from King's Birthday (June 8) to Picnic Day (August 3): 56 days.
The first holiday of the year is New Year's Day (January 1) and the last is St. Stephen's Day (December 28).
Long weekends in 2026
Holidays landing on a Monday or Friday
Australia Day
January 26 · Monday
Labour Day
March 2 · Monday
Canberra Day
March 9 · Monday
Adelaide Cup Day
March 9 · Monday
Eight Hours Day
March 9 · Monday
Labour Day
March 9 · Monday
Good Friday
April 3 · Friday
Easter Monday
April 6 · Monday
Anzac Day
April 27 · Monday
May Day
May 4 · Monday
Labour Day
May 4 · Monday
Reconciliation Day
June 1 · Monday
Western Australia Day
June 1 · Monday
King's Birthday
June 8 · Monday
Picnic Day
August 3 · Monday
Friday before AFL Grand Final
September 25 · Friday
King's Birthday
September 28 · Monday
Labour Day
October 5 · Monday
King's Birthday
October 5 · Monday
Christmas Day
December 25 · Friday
St. Stephen's Day
December 28 · Monday
Frequently asked questions
How many public holidays does Australia have in 2026?+
Australia has 27 official public holidays in 2026, with April being the busiest month (7).
What is the first public holiday of 2026 in Australia?+
The first public holiday of 2026 is New Year's Day, on January 1.
How many long weekends are there in Australia in 2026?+
21 holidays land on a Monday or Friday, which can create long weekends.
Which 2026 holidays fall on a weekend in Australia?+
4 holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday: Holy Saturday (April 4), Easter Sunday (April 5), Anzac Day (April 25), Anzac Day (April 25).