Public Holidays in Western Australia
Public Holiday information for Western Australia (WA) and Perth residents and visitors.
| Holiday Title | Date | Holiday Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Monday, 1 January 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Australia Day | Friday, 26 January 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Labour Day | Monday, 4 March 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Good Friday | Friday, 29 March 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Easter Monday | Monday, 1 April 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| ANZAC Day | Thursday, 25 April 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Western Australia Day | Monday, 3 June 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| King’s Birthday | Monday, 23 September 2024 | Public | WA Most Areas |
| Christmas Day | Wednesday, 25 December 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
| Boxing Day | Thursday, 26 December 2024 | Public | WA Wide |
Notes:
The Queen’s Birthday public holiday has been replaced by the King’s Birthday public holiday. Some areas of Western Australia observe the King’s Birthday holiday on a different date.
** The Kings Birthday is celebrated on Monday, 12 August 2024 in the Port Hedland local government district and Monday 5 August 2024 for the Karratha local government district
WA Specific Public Holidays
There are a total of seven national public holidays that are observed throughout Australia. In addition, each state has their own public holiday dates that are set by the local government.
Some states also have regional holidays. These regional public holidays are observed within individual regions of the state and are often to observe local shows or events. In Western Australia, there are some regions that observe the King’s Birthday holiday on a different date. This is usually due to the original date for the King’s Birthday clashing with another significant date or event.
The national public holidays that are observed by all states of Australia are:
- New Year’s Day
- Australia Day
- Anzac Day
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day
The public holidays that are exclusive to Western Australia are:
- Labour Day
- Western Australia Day
- King’s Birthday
What is Western Australia Day?
Western Australia Day, or WA Day, is observed on the first Monday in June each year.
Originally named Foundation Day, it was formally changed to WA Day in April 2012.
WA Day is intended to be a more inclusive public holiday, celebrating all Western Australians by recognising Western Australia’s Aboriginal history in addition to the early European settlers and everyone else who has made Western Australia their home.
Welcome to Our Comprehensive Guide of Western Australian Public Holidays in 2024
As you make plans for next year, understanding when these important holidays occur is important to making the most of your stay here in this beautiful state. In this section, we’ll outline all of the public holidays scheduled for 2024, giving a preview of all that lies ahead!
Western Australia will observe various public holidays throughout 2024, each one carrying special significance and cultural value. Holidays offer opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and celebration alike. Whether you are a local looking forward to taking time off work or a traveller eager to experience its vibrant culture, knowing when the dates for these celebrations fall will help you plan your adventures effectively.
Here is a glimpse of Western Australia’s public holidays for 2024:
New Year’s Day: Enjoy celebrating the beginning of 2024 with family and friends by gathering on January 1st to welcome in 2024 in style.
Australia Day: Celebrate Australia’s history on January 26th with festivities and events all over Australia. Labour Day: Mark this special occasion on March 2nd by taking time off work in order to honour workers and the labour movement for all their efforts and contributions.
Good Friday and Easter Monday: Remember these religious holidays on April 5th and 8th to commemorate Christian traditions associated with Easter.
Anzac Day: Commemorate their sacrifice by paying your respects on April 25th.
Western Australia Day: To commemorate Western Australia’s foundation on June 3rd, events taking place that highlight its history and culture will take place across Western Australia on that date. Queen’s Birthday Weekend: Take part in numerous festivities celebrating her birthday by making October 7th your long weekend holiday!
Christmas and Boxing Days: End the year on an enjoyable note on December 25th and 26th with family gatherings to commemorate Christmas celebrations.
Western Australia boasts an array of holidays that add their own distinct touch, be it beach days, cultural festivals, or time spent exploring nature. Here we will delve into popular holiday destinations and the optimal times to plan getaways.
Western Australia boasts diverse landscapes that provide visitors with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure.
Public holidays in 2024 will highlight several destinations, showcasing a host of activities and attractions for holidaymakers. Let’s take a look at some of WA’s top holiday spots:
Perth: As the capital city of Western Australia, Perth boasts an energetic cultural scene, stunning beaches, and an exciting dining and nightlife scene. Public holidays bring festivals, markets and events that bring life to this vibrant city; visitors can discover its Swan Valley wine region or relax on its pristine beaches.
Margaret River: With its world-class wineries and gourmet dining venues, Margaret River is an idyllic destination for wine enthusiasts. In addition to wine tasting, visitors can indulge in gourmet dining experiences, explore limestone caves, and partake in outdoor activities such as surfing and hiking, making Margaret River an ideal location for relaxing holidays during public holidays.
Broome: Set in the Kimberley region, Broome offers an exceptional blend of Indigenous culture, stunning beaches, and gorgeous sunsets. A visit to Cable Beach, where visitors can take an exciting camel ride along its shoreline, should not be missed. Broome’s long history and natural splendour make for an engaging holiday experience.
Rottnest Island: Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as being home to quokka marsupials only found here, public holidays provide ample time for exploration as well as water activities like snorkelling and fishing.
Albany: Situated on Western Australia’s southern coast, Albany provides an intriguing blend of history and natural beauty. Explore historic whaling stations, the Torndirrup National Park coastline, or discover local maritime history during public holidays in Albany. It is an ideal destination to experience both culture and nature!
Western Australia offers many popular holiday destinations for 2024. Each destination provides an enjoyable experience ranging from city exploration and beach relaxation to cultural immersion. When planning your trip, consider which activities and experiences align with your interests and make the most of your time in this magnificent state.
Public Holiday Activities in WA
Around public holidays in Western Australia, there are often special events, festivals, and celebrations that add to the holiday experience. Here are some notable events that occur around specific public holidays:
- Australia Day (January 26th):
- Skyworks: Perth’s Australia Day Skyworks is one of the largest fireworks displays in Australia, drawing crowds to the Swan River foreshore for an evening of entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show.
- Citizenship Ceremonies: Many local councils hold citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day, welcoming new citizens to the country.
- Easter (April 5th – April 8th):
- Easter Egg Hunts: Various Easter egg hunts and family-friendly events take place across Western Australia during the Easter long weekend.
- Bunbury Geographe Chocolate Festival: This festival in Bunbury celebrates all things chocolate and is a must-visit for chocolate lovers during Easter.
- Anzac Day (April 25th):
- Dawn Services: Anzac Day dawn services are held at war memorials and cenotaphs throughout Western Australia, allowing people to pay their respects to veterans.
- Parades and Commemorative Events: Many towns and cities host parades and commemorative events to honor the Anzac spirit and remember those who served in conflicts.
- Western Australia Day (June 3rd):
- Foundation Day: Celebrated as Western Australia Day or Foundation Day, this holiday often features community events, art exhibitions, and historical reenactments that showcase the state’s heritage.
- WA Day Festival: Perth hosts the WA Day Festival, offering a wide range of cultural and entertainment activities, including live music, food stalls, and family-friendly attractions.
- Kings’s Birthday (September 23rd):
- Perth Royal Show: Typically held in late September to early October, the Perth Royal Show is a major event that coincides with the Kings’s Birthday long weekend. It features agricultural exhibits, amusement rides, and entertainment for all ages.
- Fremantle Long Table Dinner: This annual charity event takes place in Fremantle and features a long table dining experience on the historic streets of the city.
- Christmas (December 25th – December 26th):
- Christmas Lights Displays: Many neighbourhoods and communities across Western Australia decorate their homes with dazzling Christmas lights displays, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors.
- Christmas Markets: Christmas markets and fairs are held in various locations, offering a festive shopping experience with crafts, gifts, and delicious seasonal treats.
These special events and celebrations enhance the holiday experience during public holidays in Western Australia. They provide opportunities for cultural enrichment, family-friendly activities, and community engagement. Travellers and locals can plan their holidays around these events to make the most of their time in the state and create lasting memories.