Christmas Day 2020 at Cottesloe Beach. 25 DECEMBER 2020 Picture: Danella Bevis The West Australian
West Australians are set to enjoy two additional public holidays each year following a significant overhaul of the state’s holiday calendar. Premier Roger Cook announced the changes on Saturday, revealing that Easter Saturday and a new holiday, Show Day, will be added to the calendar. The announcement, made to The Sunday Times, comes after months of public consultation, which Cook described as “overwhelmingly” supportive.
The introduction of these holidays will increase the total number of public holidays in Western Australia from 11 to 13. However, the move is expected to stir controversy among business owners, as the State Government’s analysis indicates an additional $147 million in wages annually for WA employers.
Details of the New Public Holiday Schedule
The Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025, which facilitates these changes, is anticipated to be introduced to the WA Parliament this week. The new holiday schedule, effective from 2028, includes:
- Easter Saturday will become a public holiday, aligning WA with Victoria, the ACT, and the NT.
- The King’s Birthday will move from late September to the second Monday in June.
- Show Day, a new holiday, will be observed on the first Monday of the September-October school holidays, with regional councils having the flexibility to select another date in September.
- WA Day will shift from June to the second Monday in November.
- Labour Day will move to the second Monday in March, except in State election years, when it will be the third Monday to avoid election conflicts.
Rationale and Reactions
Premier Cook emphasized the importance of aligning WA’s holidays with the rest of Australia to facilitate smoother business operations with eastern states. “Striking the right balance is essential,” Cook stated. “I want to make sure workers get the breaks they deserve while we keep WA’s economy strong. This is a win for families and for business.”
Despite the positive reception from the public, business groups have expressed strong opposition. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA, the Tourism Council of WA, and the Australian Hotels Association WA have all voiced concerns about the financial impact on businesses.
“It’s clear that WA businesses can’t afford another two days where they’re paying someone $65 an hour to wash dishes,” said Aaron Morey, acting co-chief executive of CCIWA.
Tourism Council boss Evan Hall echoed these sentiments, highlighting the burden of additional penalty rates on small businesses in the attraction sector.
Community Consultation and Economic Implications
Cabinet Secretary Daniel Pastorelli noted that the changes were shaped by extensive community consultation, with over 10,000 submissions from various stakeholders. “We wanted to ensure Western Australians got an even spread of public holidays throughout the year,” he explained. “The changes will more appropriately align us with the rest of Australia and allow economic activity to continue to thrive.”
Moving WA Day to November is expected to enhance state celebrations and provide a long weekend before the busy pre-Christmas period, potentially boosting local tourism and retail sectors.
Looking Ahead
As the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 heads to Parliament, the debate over the economic impact versus the cultural and social benefits of additional public holidays is likely to intensify. The government aims to modernize the holiday calendar while balancing the needs of workers and businesses.
With the changes set to take effect in 2028, businesses and workers alike will need to prepare for the adjustments, ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible. The outcome of this legislative change will undoubtedly be watched closely by other states considering similar reforms.
