The King's Birthday is a significant public holiday observed across Australia, celebrating the official birthday of the reigning British monarch, King Charles III. Because public holiday schedules are managed independently by individual states and territories, the calendar dates for this long weekend are staggered throughout the year across different administrative regions rather than marked on a single national day.
Australia King's Birthday Public Holiday Schedule & Australian Royal Traditions
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8 Jun | Mon | King's Birthday | National except QLD & WA |
| 28 Sep | Mon | King's Birthday | WA | |
| 5 Oct | Mon | King's Birthday | QLD | |
| 2027 | 14 Jun | Mon | King's Birthday | National except QLD & WA |
| 27 Sep | Mon | King's Birthday | WA | |
| 4 Oct | Mon | King's Birthday | QLD | |
| 2028 | 12 Jun | Mon | King's Birthday | National except QLD & WA |
| 2 Oct | Mon | King's Birthday | QLD & WA |
Visit australia.com for the original release.
How is the King's Birthday Celebrated in Australia?
Observed as a popular time for community sports, winter getaways, and official honors, the holiday serves as a vital winter or spring recreational break for millions of families.
King's Birthday Honours
The Governor-General announces the King's Birthday Honours List to recognize outstanding citizens. Notable Australians are formally appointed to the Order of Australia for their exceptional achievements in community service, science, arts, and sport.
AFL Big Freeze Match
The winter long weekend features a massive sporting tradition at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Collingwood Magpies take on the Melbourne Demons in the annual AFL clash, highlighting the "Big Freeze" event to raise vital funds for MND research.
Ski Season Openings
For southeastern states like New South Wales and Victoria, the June long weekend marks the official opening of the Australian alpine ski season. Throngs of holidaymakers flock to resorts like Thredbo and Perisher to enjoy initial winter snowfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the holiday is staggered. The ACT, NSW, NT, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria celebrate it on the second Monday in June. Western Australia marks it on the fourth Monday of September, and Queensland celebrates it on the first Monday of October.
In June, the holiday lands on June 8, 2026, June 14, 2027, and June 12, 2028. For Western Australia, it lands on September 28, 2026, September 27, 2027, and September 25, 2028. For Queensland, it falls on October 5, 2026, October 4, 2027, and October 2, 2028.
King Charles III was born on November 14, 1948. However, Australia continues the historical royal tradition of holding the official public holiday during months that offer more favorable weather conditions for outdoor public events and parades rather than the damp UK or late Australian spring.