Easter, a time of reflection and celebration for many, also brings with it a patchwork of public holidays across Australia. These holidays, varying from state to state, can pose a unique challenge for businesses and payroll departments nationwide. As we approach Easter 2024, understanding the specific public holidays within each state and territory becomes essential for effective planning and compliance.
A State-by-State Guide to Easter Public Holidays 2024
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- NSW observes the traditional Good Friday and Easter Monday as public holidays, offering a long weekend to its residents.
- Victoria (VIC)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- In addition to the nationwide observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday, Victoria also celebrates Easter Saturday (30 March 2024) as a public holiday.
- Queensland (QLD)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- Queenslanders enjoy a long weekend starting with Good Friday and ending with Easter Monday.
- South Australia (SA)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- South Australia adds an extra day of rest with the Easter Saturday public holiday (30 March 2024).
- Western Australia (WA)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- WA observes the standard Good Friday and Easter Monday holidays.
- Tasmania (TAS)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- Easter Tuesday: 2 April 2024 (Government employees)
- Tasmania uniquely observes Easter Tuesday as a public holiday, specifically for government employees, extending the holiday period even further.
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- The NT celebrates the common set of Easter public holidays with Good Friday and Easter Monday.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Good Friday: 29 March 2024
- Easter Monday: 1 April 2024
- The ACT sticks to the standard observance of Good Friday and Easter Monday.
Implications for Payroll
The variance in public holidays necessitates meticulous planning, especially for national businesses and those in border areas. Payroll professionals must be vigilant in applying the correct public holiday rates and entitlements, given the potential for overtime and penalty rates during these periods.
Practical Tips for Employers:
- Plan Ahead: Anticipate staffing needs and communicate with employees well in advance to ensure smooth operations during the holiday period.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes or updates to public holiday legislations within your state or territory.
- Review Payroll Systems: Ensure your payroll system is updated to reflect the correct public holidays and associated rates for each state or territory.
Easter 2024 presents a diverse calendar of public holidays across Australia. For payroll departments, understanding these variations is crucial for ensuring compliance and ensuring a happy Easter for all employees.
