What do our public holidays commemorate?
Information on the origins and purpose of WA's public holidays.
Australia Day
Australia Day marks the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet and the establishment of the first European settlement in Australia, on 26 January 1788.
Labour Day
The Labour Day holiday commemorates the granting of the eight hour working day to Western Australian workers. It is held on the first Monday in March and today recognises the contribution of all working people to the prosperity of our State.
ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day is a day for remembrance and recognition of all Australians who have served our country in wartime. The original ANZACs were the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who fought in Gallipoli in Turkey during the First World War. These troops landed in Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, and the ANZAC Day public holiday is held on 25 April each year.
Foundation Day
Foundation Day is a uniquely Western Australian public holiday. It commemorates the day that the first European settlers arrived in Western Australia to found the Swan River Colony on 1 June 1829. Foundation Day is held on the first Monday in June each year.
Queen's Birthday
The Queen's Birthday holiday is proclaimed by the Governor of Western Australia based on the dates of the Term 3 school holidays and the Royal Show. This recognises the significance of the Royal Show, which has been associated with the Queen's Birthday public holiday since 1981.
The other Australian States have the Queen's Birthday holiday in June. Queen Elizabeth's actual birthday is 21st April.