As Australians gear up for the October long weekend, many are wondering which stores will remain open during the public holidays. With both Labour Day and King’s Birthday being observed, trading hours will differ from state to state, and understanding what’s open — and what’s not — is crucial for anyone hoping to get their shopping done. From major supermarkets to smaller independent shops, the holiday brings a mixture of convenience and restrictions depending on where you are.
New South Wales & ACT: A Mixed Bag of Accessibility
In New South Wales and the ACT, most major retailers will be open, although reduced hours are likely. According to the latest guidelines, supermarkets like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi will remain open, but their operating times may differ from the norm. Department stores like Kmart will generally run from 8am to 9pm, while shopping centres, such as Westfield malls, will open between 10am and 7pm.
One of the biggest advantages for residents in these regions is deregulated trading. This means individual retailers have the flexibility to determine their own hours. For instance, larger stores such as Ikea and Bunnings are expected to operate from 10am to 9pm and 7am to 7pm, respectively, in most locations. Liquor stores, including Dan Murphy’s and BWS, are likely to maintain normal Monday trading hours, according to sources.
For those planning to visit museums or public galleries in the ACT, expect them to remain open, as public transport operates on a Sunday timetable, allowing for easy access to cultural activities during the public holiday.
South Australia: Stricter Trading Regulations
South Australia presents a very different scenario. The state’s trading regulations are much more restrictive, with only “exempt” shops able to open during the holiday. These include smaller retailers such as cafes, pharmacies, florists, and newsagents. Larger stores like Coles and Woolworths are expected to remain closed, although some independent grocery stores and smaller supermarkets may open, subject to location and size requirements.
In metropolitan areas, particularly within the CBD tourist precinct, non-exempt shops may open between 11am and 5pm. However, outside these areas, restrictions tighten, and most larger stores must stay shut. Car dealerships, Service SA branches, and some other retail outlets will also close their doors for the day. In sum, those in South Australia will need to plan carefully, as the number of open stores will be much smaller compared to other states. Online shopping, however, remains a viable alternative for many.
