It’s wild to think that we’re already one full week into the new year, but here we are. And that means Australia Day is right around the corner.
This year, the public holiday falls on Wednesday, January 26, meaning if you take the Monday and Tuesday or Thursday and Friday off, you’ll be treated to a five-day holiday for the price of two days of annual leave. Or, if you take all the surrounding days, it’ll be nine days off for the price of four. Which could be exactly what you need to kickstart your new year.
Whatever you choose to do that week — and whether you’re even celebrating the controversial day — you’re likely wondering what’s open on the day for you to do. If you’re having a barbecue with friends, can you buy drinks the day of, or should you plan to do so the day before? Or, if you’re not celebrating and simply wanting to enjoy the day off with a long lunch, are you even able to do so?
You’ve come to the right place. Ahead, a general overview of exactly what’ll be open across the country on Australia Day.
Restaurants, Bars or Cafés
After the year we’ve had, it’s worth showing your support to local businesses by spending coin at a restaurant, bar or café on the day.
Almost all restaurants and bars are expected to be open on Australia Day, though, you might want to check the venue’s website or Instagram page beforehand. Many venues have been forced to close due to staff shortages caused by COVID outbreaks.
If you do want to recognise the day and keep to its traditions, be sure to order yourself a vegemite sandwich, lamington, meat pie, sausage roll or Anzac biscuit.
Bottle Shops
If the plans for previous years are anything to go by, like restaurants, most bottle shops, including Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice, will be open on Australia Day. Though, stores in South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland may have reduced trading hours or be closed on the day. Check online or call ahead before heading to the store.
Shopping Centres
Westfield Shopping Centres are open during their usual trading hours on Australia Day, closing at 6pm, though some centres in ACT, South Australia and Queensland may close earlier, at 4pm, 5pm or 5:30pm.
Supermarkets
Woolworths, Coles and ALDI are all expected to be open, though some stores may have reduced trading hours. Again, check online or call ahead to avoid disappointment.
Post Offices
In observance of the public holiday, all post offices will be shut on the day, so if you need to mail a package or pick one up urgently, plan ahead.
Want more details on Australia Day? Check out our pieces below:
All the Marches and Rallies Happening for Invasion Day 2022
Facts You Should Know About Our Indigenous History for Invasion Day
How to Talk to Your Kids About Survival Day
Why So Many Australians Are Changing Their Minds About Australia Day
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