AFL Grand Final holiday finally confirmed

AFL grand final eve is Victoria's newest public holiday.

And with six weeks out from the GF businesses can finally do their rosters.

The holiday, on October 2 this year, was confirmed by Small Business Minister Philip Dalidakis after a consultation period, but it will officially be announced in the government gazette this week, along with the Easter Sunday holiday.

"There will be no trading restrictions imposed on either of these public holidays," Mr Dalidakis said. "Whether businesses open or close is entirely a matter for them."

Employees who work the days will get public holiday penalty rates.

The Grand Final Friday public holiday has come under fire from businesses, aged care groups, and sections of the AFL, which has had to move its traditional grand final parade.

Businesses were also in doubt about whether the holiday would be gazetted in time, with many having to make roster decisions without knowing if it would happen.

Grand final Friday will be held for the first time on October 2.