Boxing Day 2026 Dates
Boxing Day is one of Australia’s most anticipated public holidays, marking the day after Christmas with traditions ranging from cricket matches to massive retail sales. In 2026, Boxing Day falls on a Saturday, which triggers special substitute holiday arrangements across all Australian states and territories.
| Day | Date | Type | Public Holiday Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boxing Day (Actual) | Saturday 26 December 2026 | Weekend | Yes – Public Holiday |
| Boxing Day (Observed) | Monday 28 December 2026 | Weekday | Yes – Substitute Holiday |
What is a Substitute Holiday?
When a public holiday falls on a weekend in Australia, most states and territories observe a substitute holiday on the next available weekday (usually the following Monday). This ensures that workers who normally work Monday to Friday still receive their public holiday entitlement.
The substitute holiday system is governed by individual state and territory legislation, but all Australian jurisdictions follow similar principles:
- The actual holiday date (26 December) remains a public holiday
- An additional observed holiday is declared on the next weekday
- Workers may be entitled to penalty rates on both days depending on their award
- Most businesses close or operate on restricted hours for the observed holiday
Boxing Day 2026 by State and Territory
All Australian states and territories follow the same pattern for Boxing Day 2026, with both Saturday 26 December and Monday 28 December recognized as public holidays:
| State/Territory | Saturday 26 Dec | Monday 28 Dec | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Both days attract penalty rates |
| Victoria | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Boxing Day Test at MCG |
| Queensland | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Retail trading restrictions apply |
| Western Australia | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Additional regional holidays may apply |
| South Australia | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Proclamation Day also observed |
| Tasmania | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finish |
| Australian Capital Territory | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Same arrangements as NSW |
| Northern Territory | Public Holiday | Substitute Holiday | Regional variations may exist |
History and Origins of Boxing Day
Boxing Day has been celebrated in Australia since British colonial times, with the tradition dating back to the 19th century. The holiday’s origins are rooted in British customs, though the exact origin of the name remains debated among historians.
Theories Behind the Name
Several theories explain why the day after Christmas is called “Boxing Day”:
- Alms Boxes: In medieval England, churches would open collection boxes for the poor on the day after Christmas
- Servants’ Holiday: Victorian-era servants received boxes of gifts and money from their employers, along with a day off to visit family
- Nautical Tradition: Ships would carry a sealed box of money for good luck; if the voyage was successful, the box was given to a priest at port to distribute to the poor
Boxing Day in Australia
In Australia, Boxing Day has evolved into a unique celebration that combines traditional elements with distinctly Australian summer activities. The holiday marks the height of the summer holiday season, with many Australians taking extended breaks between Christmas and New Year.
Boxing Day Sales and Shopping
Boxing Day sales have become a major retail event across Australia, with many stores opening early on 26 December to offer significant discounts. In 2026, shoppers should note the following:
Saturday 26 December 2026
- Major shopping centres and retail stores will open for Boxing Day sales
- Opening hours may vary – many stores open as early as 6:00 AM
- Expect large crowds at major retail locations
- Online sales typically begin at midnight
Monday 28 December 2026
- Most retail stores will remain open as the substitute holiday
- Some smaller businesses may close for the observed public holiday
- Extended trading hours may continue at major shopping centres
Tips for Boxing Day Shopping
- Check specific store opening times in advance
- Consider online shopping to avoid crowds
- Be aware of return policies for sale items
- Public transport may run on holiday schedules
Boxing Day Test Cricket
The Boxing Day Test is one of the most iconic fixtures in Australian sport. Held annually at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), this cricket match begins on 26 December and draws massive crowds.
Boxing Day Test 2026
For 2026, the Boxing Day Test will begin on Saturday 26 December at the MCG. Cricket fans should note:
- The match begins at traditional Boxing Day Test hours
- With the holiday falling on a weekend, attendance may be higher than usual
- Public transport to the MCG will operate on a public holiday timetable
- Tickets typically go on sale several months in advance
The Boxing Day Test has been a Melbourne tradition since 1968 (with earlier sporadic matches) and represents one of the highlights of the Australian cricket summer.
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
Another major Boxing Day tradition is the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which begins in Sydney Harbour on 26 December. In 2026:
- The race starts on Saturday 26 December 2026
- Yachts typically arrive in Hobart between 27-31 December
- The race finish coincides with the Hobart Summer Festival
- Spectators can watch the start from various Sydney Harbour vantage points
What’s Open and Closed
Saturday 26 December 2026
| Service | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping Centres | Open | Boxing Day sales – extended hours likely |
| Supermarkets | Varies | Major chains usually open; check local stores |
| Banks | Closed | Weekend closure |
| Post Offices | Closed | Weekend closure |
| Public Transport | Limited | Sunday or holiday timetable |
| Government Offices | Closed | Weekend closure |
| Schools | Closed | Summer holidays |
| Hospitals | Open | Emergency services always available |
| Restaurants/Cafes | Varies | Many open; bookings recommended |
Monday 28 December 2026 (Substitute Holiday)
| Service | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping Centres | Mostly Open | Some reduced hours possible |
| Supermarkets | Varies | Major chains typically open |
| Banks | Closed | Public holiday |
| Post Offices | Closed | Public holiday |
| Public Transport | Limited | Public holiday timetable |
| Government Offices | Closed | Public holiday |
| Schools | Closed | Summer holidays |
| Hospitals | Open | Emergency services always available |
| Restaurants/Cafes | Varies | Many open; public holiday surcharges may apply |
Working on Boxing Day 2026
Employee Rights and Entitlements
Workers in Australia have specific entitlements when working on public holidays:
- Saturday 26 December: If you work on the actual Boxing Day, you are entitled to penalty rates as specified in your award or enterprise agreement
- Monday 28 December: If you work on the substitute holiday, you may also be entitled to penalty rates depending on your award
- Day off: Most full-time employees who normally work Mondays will have the day off on 28 December
- Alternative holiday: Some awards allow for an alternative day off if you must work the public holiday
Penalty Rates
Penalty rates vary by industry and award, but typically include:
- Public holiday rates (often 250% of base rate)
- Weekend penalties for Saturday work
- Additional allowances for working on public holidays
Check the Fair Work Ombudsman website or your specific award for exact rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get two public holidays for Boxing Day 2026?
No, you receive one public holiday entitlement, but it may be observed on a different day. If you normally work Monday to Friday, you’ll likely get Monday 28 December off. If you work weekends, your entitlement may apply to Saturday 26 December.
Which day do I get off work?
Most businesses will observe Monday 28 December 2026 as the public holiday. However, this depends on your employment arrangement and the award covering your work. Check with your employer for specific details.
Do shops open on Boxing Day?
Yes, Boxing Day sales are a major retail event across Australia. Most major shopping centres and retail stores open on Saturday 26 December, often with extended hours. Many remain open on Monday 28 December as well.
Is public transport running on Boxing Day?
Public transport operates on limited schedules on both days. Saturday 26 December typically follows a Sunday or holiday timetable, while Monday 28 December operates on a public holiday timetable. Check with your local transport authority for specific times.
Do I get paid for the substitute holiday if I don’t work?
If you are a permanent employee who would normally work on a Monday, you should receive paid time off for the substitute public holiday on 28 December. Casual employees may not receive paid public holidays unless they work that day.
What happens if I work both days?
If you work both Saturday 26 December and Monday 28 December, you may be entitled to penalty rates for both days depending on your award. Check your specific employment conditions.
Is Boxing Day celebrated the same way in all states?
While all states observe Boxing Day as a public holiday, traditions vary. Victoria is famous for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, while Tasmania celebrates the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finish. Retail trading hours also vary by state.
Planning Ahead for Boxing Day 2026
With Boxing Day 2026 falling on a weekend, it’s important to plan ahead:
- Travel: Book accommodation early if planning to attend the Boxing Day Test or Sydney to Hobart finish
- Shopping: Research Boxing Day sales in advance and set a budget
- Work: Confirm your roster and entitlements with your employer
- Events: Purchase tickets for cricket, racing, or other events well in advance
- Transport: Check public holiday timetables if relying on public transport
Boxing Day 2026 promises to be a memorable holiday with the unique situation of having both the actual holiday on a weekend and a substitute weekday holiday. Whether you’re planning to shop the sales, watch the cricket, enjoy a day at the beach, or simply relax with family, understanding the holiday arrangements ensures you can make the most of this Australian summer tradition.
