State Government also planning to change three existing public holidays to new dates
The Western Australia government would add two new public holidays and shift three existing ones under new legislation to be introduced this week.
The government announced that it will introduce to Parliament the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 this week, with the proposed changes to take effect from 2028 to ensure a smooth transition.
The bill seeks to recognise Easter Sunday as a public holiday, and introduce a new Show Day holiday which will be set by proclamation to fall on the first Monday of the September/October school holidays.
"By adding two new public holidays – Easter Saturday and Show Day – we're creating a schedule that better matches the rhythm of life in WA," said Premier Roger Cook in a statement.
The bill also shifts three existing public holidays to new dates. The changes include:
- Moving Labour Day to the second Monday in March and to the third Monday in March during state election years
- Moving WA Day to the second Monday in October
- Moving the King's Birthday public holiday to the second Monday in June
Realigning these three holidays will support productivity and economic activity across the state, according to Cook.
"These changes are about modernising WA's public holiday calendar in a way that reflects the needs and values of our community," he said.
"Striking the right balance was essential and I believe this new schedule ensures our economy remains the strongest in the nation, while workers get the break they deserve."
The proposal comes after a community consultation that saw more than 10,000 submissions from businesses, not-for-profit organisations, peak bodies, unions, and members of the community.
"We have listened to their feedback and are confident that these changes will ensure WA has a fit-for-purpose public holiday calendar that will support economic productivity into the future," said Parliamentary Secretary Daniel Pastorelli.
