Australia will observe the October long weekend on Monday, October 6, 2025. This public holiday is known as Labour Day in several states including New South Wales (NSW), the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and South Australia (SA). It recognises the establishment of the eight-hour working day. The long weekend grants Australians extra time to enjoy the spring weather, especially with daylight saving starting the day before, on Sunday, October 5. Australians can expect variation in trading hours and services across states during this holiday.
Retail and Trading Hours Across States
In NSW, no strict trading restrictions apply for Labour Day. Retailers decide whether to close or operate limited hours. Major stores including Woolworths, Kmart, and Target will be open, some with adjusted hours.
Kmart stores mostly open 8am to 9pm, with some locations closing at 8pm. Big W stores will operate from 10am to 4pm. All Westfield shopping centres in NSW will follow usual Monday hours from 10am to 6pm, though some individual shops may close. Liquor stores like Liquorland and Vintage Cellars will be open under normal hours (10am to 6pm). Customers are encouraged to check store locators for precise times.
In South Australia, many large retail stores will remain closed on the holiday. Selected Adelaide stores such as Aston Hills and Glenunga have trading hours from 7:30am to 9pm. Many other suburban stores will not open, including Aberfoyle Park, Castle Plaza, and Blackwood. Liquor stores in centres like Mount Barker and Wallaroo operate restricted hours, for example 9am to 8pm or shorter. Queensland stores including Ashmore and Glenmore offer trading mostly between 6am to 9pm.
In Western Australia, retail hours typically allow trading from 8am to 5pm on public holidays, though many shops choose whether to open. Historically, shops close on Christmas Day and Good Friday but stay open on Labour Day with set hours. Perth metropolitan retail shops can open from 11am to 5pm on public holidays and this applies to October 6.
Trading Hours by State
Essential Services and Public Transport
Essential services, including hospitals, emergency departments, and essential government departments, remain operational during the public holiday. Public transport services may run on a Sunday or holiday timetable. Users planning to travel are advised to confirm local schedules in advance with state transport authorities.
Financial Markets and Banking
The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) remains open on Labour Day as it is not a national public holiday across all states. Financial institutions, including banks, typically close branches, particularly in NSW and ACT, with limited weekend and public holiday branch availability. Many banking services remain accessible online and through ATMs.
Open and closed services
Impact on Businesses and Workers
Businesses not deemed essential may reduce or cease operations for the public holiday. Retail workers often receive public holiday penalty rates, as stipulated under the Fair Work Act. Employers and employees should check relevant contracts and awards for specific entitlements.
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Summary of What Will Be Open or Closed
- Major supermarkets and large retail stores in NSW, ACT, and QLD largely open with usual or restricted hours.
- Most retail stores in South Australia, especially outside Adelaide metro areas, will be closed.
- Liquor stores open in major cities but with limited hours.
- Public transport runs on holiday timetables.
- Banks close branches but offer online services.
- Hospitals and emergency services operate as usual.
- ASX financial markets remain open.
Australians should confirm trading and public service hours ahead of the long weekend to plan shopping and travel. Checking specific store locators and official transport websites helps avoid inconvenience during the holiday on October 6, 2025.
This overview provides the key facts and figures regarding the October long weekend trading hours and public holiday services across Australia for 2025. It serves as a practical guide for residents and visitors to manage their plans efficiently.
