King’s Birthday (Australia) 2026
The King’s Birthday public holiday in Australia is observed on the second Monday in June in most states and territories, creating a mid-year long weekend. Queensland and Western Australia use different dates later in the year, so always check your state calendar.
About King’s Birthday (Australia)
History & origins
Australia, as a constitutional monarchy, marks an official birthday of the reigning monarch with a public holiday. During Queen Elizabeth II’s reign the day was widely known as the Queen’s Birthday. After King Charles III’s accession, the holiday name became the King’s Birthday from 2023 in Australian jurisdictions.
The June date does not match King Charles III’s actual birthday (14 November). Placing the holiday in June follows long British and Commonwealth practice of an official birthday in milder weather and continues the schedule most Australian jurisdictions used under the Queen. Western Australia schedules the holiday in late September or early October (proclaimed annually) because early June is used for Western Australia Day. Queensland observes the King’s Birthday on the first Monday in October.
Honours lists connected to the sovereign’s birthday are part of the wider Commonwealth tradition; the public holiday itself is mainly a day off and a long-weekend fixture.
Why it matters
For most of eastern and southern Australia the second Monday in June is a reliable mid-year break. The split calendar (June vs September/October) is a practical reminder that Australian public holidays are often state-based even when they share a name.
How to celebrate
Use the long weekend for rest, sport, or travel within your state rules. Check whether your jurisdiction is on the June date or the QLD/WA date before booking. There is no required ceremony for the general public — it is primarily a statutory holiday.
Facts
- In ACT, NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, the holiday is the second Monday in June
- Queensland observes the King’s Birthday on the first Monday in October
- Western Australia proclaims a late-September or early-October date (and some regional alternatives)
- The holiday name changed from Queen’s Birthday after Charles III became king
- The June date is an official birthday observance, not the King’s calendar birthday of 14 November
Upcoming dates
- Monday, June 8, 2026
- Monday, June 14, 2027
- Monday, June 12, 2028
- Monday, June 11, 2029
- Monday, June 10, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is King’s Birthday (Australia) in 2026?
King’s Birthday (Australia) in 2026 falls on Monday, June 8, 2026.
Is today King’s Birthday (Australia)?
No. King’s Birthday (Australia) in 2026 falls on Monday, June 8, 2026, not today.
What is the King’s Birthday holiday?
It is an Australian public holiday marking the official birthday of the reigning monarch. In most jurisdictions it falls on the second Monday in June and creates a long weekend.
Why isn’t it on the King’s real birthday?
Official birthday holidays in Commonwealth countries are traditionally set for convenience and climate, not the monarch’s actual date of birth. Australia kept the established June slot for most states.
How do you celebrate the King’s Birthday in Australia?
Most people treat it as a public-holiday long weekend — rest, sport, or short trips. Formal royal ceremonies are not required for the general public.
Is the King’s Birthday an official holiday everywhere in Australia?
Yes in the sense that every state and territory has a King’s Birthday public holiday, but the date is not the same nationwide. Always confirm your local proclamation.
Share
Help others discover this day by sharing it.