Your nationwide guide to the Australia Day long weekend
Updated . First published at
Australia Day is just around the corner, which means many people will enjoy a public holiday.
For those celebrating, the day may look like a trip to the beach, time at the pub or a day catching up with friends.
Ahead of the public holiday, here is your state-by-state guide to Australia Day for 2026.
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Many people will spend the Australia Day long weekend at the beach. Getty
When do double demerits come into effect?
Double demerits come into force in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Western Australia: From Friday, January 23 to Monday, January 26.
In Queensland, double demerit points apply all year round for the second or subsequent offence if the later offence was committed within 12 months of an earlier offence.
Double demerit points do not apply in Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania at any time of the year.
What will the weather be like?
New South Wales: Australia Day will be mostly sunny in Sydney with a top of 27 degrees and a slight chance of showers.
Queensland: It's predicted to be a mostly cloudy day in Brisbane with a top of 28 degrees. Residents on the Gold Coast can also expect cloudy conditions with a high of 27 degrees.
Victoria: Australia Day will be very warm and cloudy in Melbourne with an expected high of 30 degrees.
Australian Capital Territory: A mostly sunny day is predicted for Canberra with a top of 30 degrees.
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Temperatures are tipped to reach 27 degrees in Adelaide on Australia Day. Getty
South Australia: A partly sunny day is forecast for Adelaide on Australia Day with some cloud cover likely. Temperatures are predicted to reach a high of 27 degrees in the South Australian capital.
Western Australia: Perth will experience a hot day with plenty of sun and a high of 32 degrees.
Northern Territory: Residents in Darwin can expect thick cloud cover on Australia Day with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm in the afternoon. Temperatures are predicted to reach a high of 32 degrees.
Tasmania: Australia Day will be partly sunny in Hobart with an expected top of 23 degrees.
What major events are on?
The Australian of the Year Awards will be held on Sunday, January 25 from 7.30pm.
The event will recognise and celebrate the extraordinary people who call Australia home.
A full list of events planned for capital cities for Monday, January 26 can be found on the official Australia Day website.
You can also check your local council website for events planned for your local government area.
Do I get the day off?
Australia Day is a national public holiday in Australia.
Many workers will get the day off with paid leave but it depends on your employment contract.
If the day falls on a weekend, the public holiday will fall on a Monday.
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