What changed
The WA public holidays 2028 changes passed through State Parliament in October 2026, adding Easter Saturday and Show Day to Western Australia’s list of public holidays. As part of the same package, the dates of Labour Day, the King’s Birthday and WA Day will change. The Western Australian Government says moving Labour Day and the King’s Birthday will bring WA more closely into line with the other states and territories, while WA Day will move to November, giving people a break before Christmas and a chance to celebrate outside winter. Premier Roger Cook said the changes would help boost productivity and align three public holidays with those in other states.
Who is affected
The changes apply to Western Australian workers, businesses, organisations and the wider WA community. The Government says the two new public holidays will give people certainty and make sure workers are paid appropriately if they work on those days.
When it starts
With the law now passed, there will be a two-year implementation period so businesses, organisations, government and the community have time to prepare. The new calendar takes effect in 2028, so employers planning rosters and leave should keep the WA public holidays 2028 dates in mind.
What it means in practice
From 2028, Easter Saturday and Show Day will be recognised public holidays. Labour Day, the King’s Birthday and WA Day will move to their new dates, with WA Day shifting to November. The Government notes that more than 10,000 submissions, from businesses, not-for-profits, peak bodies, unions and members of the public, were received during consultation before the legislation was introduced.
Also read: Victorian public school funding boost locked in until 2034
General information only, not legal advice. Check the official source before acting.
Source: Western Australian Government.
