King's Birthday Public Holiday 2025: A State-by-State Guide
Australia observes the King's Birthday in June, but the date varies significantly depending on where you live.
Monday, June 8 Public Holiday
The following states and territories will observe the public holiday on Monday, June 8:
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
States Without the Monday Holiday
- Queensland: The sovereign's birthday public holiday is on October 5.
- Western Australia: Most of the state observes it on September 28; regional cities Karratha and Port Hedland on August 3.
Why the Dates Differ
The article attributes date differences to historical decisions by state governments. For Queensland, the holiday was moved to October in 2012, reverted to June in 2013, and moved back to October in 2015. The Western Australian government in 2024 stated it was considering aligning with other states.
Why Not on the King's Actual Birthday?
The tradition stems from the British military parade Trooping the Colour, which has been held in summer (June) since the 18th century for better weather. King Charles III was born on November 14. The official birthday celebration in the UK occurs on the second Saturday of June (June 13 in 2025). Australian states adopted similar timing.
King Charles's Role in Australia
Australia observes the holiday because King Charles is Australia's head of state as part of the Commonwealth, though he has no role in daily governance.
Upcoming Public Holidays (Remaining in 2025)
- ACT: Labour Day (Oct 6), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional)
- New South Wales: Labour Day (Oct 6), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional)
- Northern Territory: Picnic Day (Aug 3), Christmas Eve (Dec 24 from 7pm), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional), New Year's Eve (Dec 31 from 7pm)
- Queensland: King's Birthday (Oct 5), Christmas Eve (Dec 24 from 6pm), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional)
- South Australia: Labour Day (Oct 5), Christmas Eve (Dec 24 from 7pm), Christmas (Dec 25), Proclamation Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional), New Year's Eve (Dec 31 from 7pm)
- Tasmania: Royal Hobart Show (Oct 22, in some areas), Recreation Day (Nov 2, in areas not observing Royal Hobart Regatta), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 28)
- Victoria: Friday before AFL Grand Final (Sep 25), Melbourne Cup (Nov 3), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional)
- Western Australia: King's Birthday (Sep 28, some regional areas on different date), Christmas (Dec 25), Boxing Day (Dec 26, plus Dec 28 additional)
Note: The article states date variations are based on state government decisions and local observances.