Western Australia is set for a major overhaul of its public holiday calendar starting in 2028, with the state government moving WA Day to the second Monday in November. Premier Roger Cook has confirmed that Perth Park will host the inaugural November WA Day celebrations, following the cancellation of this year’s festivities due to wild weather.
Did You Know? The upcoming changes to the public holiday schedule include the recognition of Easter Saturday as a public holiday, bringing Western Australia into alignment with all other Australian mainland states.
The transition to a November date for WA Day is intended to shift the event into warmer months. Premier Cook stated, “The cancellation of WA Day festivities last week was disappointing but demonstrates yet again why moving that public holiday to the warmer months is a winner.” He added that the change would allow more residents to enjoy the sunshine and participate in state celebrations.
The proposed Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025, which is expected to be passed this year, also introduces a new public holiday, Show Day. This day will be set by proclamation to coincide with the first Monday of the September/October school holidays. Additionally, Labour Day will move to the second Monday in March, and the King’s Birthday will shift to the second Monday in June, both designed to better align with other Australian states.
Expert Insight: The government’s decision to link the WA Day celebration to the development of Perth Park highlights a significant bet on the new facility. While the administration views the park as a centerpiece for community engagement, the $217 million price tag has drawn scrutiny regarding the state’s spending priorities.
Controversy Surrounding the Venue
Perth Park, located near Optus Stadium and Crown Towers, is currently under construction and expected to be completed late next year. The site is planned to feature an outdoor amphitheatre, a multi-storey function and sporting facility, bike tracks, and a future hospitality venue, alongside a new motorsports street circuit.
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas has criticized the project, specifically pointing to the racetrack component as an example of misplaced priorities. The State Opposition has raised questions regarding whether the $217 million cost is justified, setting the stage for ongoing debate as the 2028 launch date approaches.
What Happens Next
With the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 expected to pass later this year, the focus will likely shift toward the final stages of the Perth Park construction. If the project remains on schedule for completion in late 2026, the government could face continued pressure from the Opposition regarding the facility’s budget and utility. Meanwhile, the public will have to adjust to a new annual rhythm of holidays, with the first November WA Day celebration serving as a high-profile test for the new calendar and the park’s capacity to host large-scale events.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new public holiday schedule take effect?
All changes proposed in the Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025 are set to take effect from 2028.
Why is WA Day moving to November?
The government aims to move the celebration to warmer months to avoid the risk of wild weather, which led to the cancellation of festivities this year.
What is the status of the Perth Park project?
The park, which has a $217 million price tag, is currently under construction and is expected to be completed late next year.
How do you feel about shifting major state celebrations to align with the warmer spring weather?
