Agritourism operators will need to prepare for significant changes to staffing, operational planning, and visitor travel patterns, with the Cook Government set to introduce a bill to reform Western Australia’s public holiday calendar from 2028. The proposed changes include the creation of two new state-wide public holidays and the rescheduling of three existing ones to better align with national dates and support economic activity.
Key Proposed Changes from 2028
The Public and Bank Holidays Amendment Bill 2025, developed after extensive community consultation, proposes a suite of changes that will directly impact business operations. If legislated, the new schedule will:
- Recognise Easter Saturday as a public holiday, aligning WA with all other mainland states.
- Introduce a new public holiday, Show Day, to be held on the first Monday of the September/October school holidays.
- Move Labour Day to the second Monday in March (except in state election years).
- Move the King’s Birthday public holiday to the second Monday in June, aligning with most other states.
- Move WA Day to the second Monday in November.
Business Implications for Agritourism Operators
These reforms will have a multifaceted impact on agritourism businesses. The addition of two public holidays will mean increased costs associated with penalty rates for staff. However, the creation of new long weekends, particularly the ‘Show Day’ holiday aligned with school holidays, could also generate significant new opportunities for domestic tourism by encouraging short breaks and regional travel.
The rescheduling of existing holidays like WA Day and Labour Day will require operators to adjust their annual marketing calendars, event planning, and staffing rosters. The shift of the King’s Birthday to June creates a winter long weekend, potentially boosting visitor numbers during a traditionally quieter period for some regions.
Premier Roger Cook stated that the changes were about modernising the calendar while balancing economic and community needs.
“Striking the right balance was essential and I believe this new schedule ensures our economy remains the strongest in the nation, while workers get the break they deserve,” the Premier said.
Two-Year Transition Period
The government has confirmed that, subject to the passage of the bill, the changes will not take effect until 2028. This provides a two-year implementation period for businesses to make the necessary administrative and industrial arrangements, such as updating employment agreements and financial forecasts.
Parliamentary Secretary Daniel Pastorelli confirmed the timeline, stating, “The proposed changes will come into effect in 2028, allowing a two-year implementation period following the passage of legislation and help to ensure a smooth transition.”
WAAA members should begin reviewing their business models now to understand the potential financial impacts and strategic opportunities presented by this new public holiday schedule.
