Public holidays in Australia often mean long weekends, family gatherings, and outdoor BBQs — but they can also mean last-minute dashes to Woolies or Coles for essentials. Whether it’s Labor Day, the King’s Birthday, or Christmas, knowing if your local supermarket is open can save you plenty of hassle.
Here’s a complete and updated guide to Woolworths and Coles public holiday trading hours in 2025, including what to expect in major cities and regional areas.
🕒 Woolworths Opening Hours on Public Holidays
🏙️ Metro Cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide)
Most Woolworths metro stores are open on public holidays, but trading hours are usually reduced.
- NSW & ACT: Most stores open between 9 AM and 6 PM, but some suburban stores may close earlier.
- Victoria: Metro Melbourne stores typically trade 8 AM to 8 PM, though rural locations might vary.
- Queensland: Many Woolworths stores open 9 AM to 6 PM, except for select regional areas where Sunday trading rules apply.
- Western Australia: Trading hours are limited, often 11 AM to 5 PM, depending on state laws.
- South Australia: Expect limited trading — often 11 AM to 5 PM, though some metro locations may remain closed.
✅ Tip: Always check your local store on the Woolworths website or app — trading hours can vary by postcode and public holiday type.
🏪 Coles Opening Hours on Public Holidays
Coles follows a similar pattern to Woolworths, but hours differ slightly in some regions.
- NSW: Most stores are open 9 AM to 6 PM, but smaller stores in rural towns may stay shut.
- Victoria: Metro Coles locations are often open 7 AM to 10 PM, though some reduce hours to 8 AM–8 PM.
- Queensland: Stores open 9 AM–6 PM, with closures in select rural or regional zones.
- WA: Usually 11 AM–5 PM for most metro Perth stores, with possible early closures in smaller centres.
- SA: Expect limited trade, typically 11 AM–5 PM, though Adelaide CBD Coles stores usually open.
📅 Major 2025 Public Holidays & Expected Supermarket Hours
Public Holiday | Woolworths | Coles | Notes |
New Year’s Day (Jan 1) | Open (reduced hours) | Open (reduced hours) | Most stores 9 AM–6 PM |
Australia Day (Jan 26) | Open | Open | Normal hours |
Good Friday (Apr 18) | Closed (most states) | Closed (most states) | Only some NSW & VIC metro stores open |
Easter Sunday (Apr 20) | Mostly closed | Mostly closed | Select metro stores open |
ANZAC Day (Apr 25) | Open after 1 PM | Open after 1 PM | National rule applies |
King’s Birthday (Jun 9) | Open | Open | Hours vary by state |
Labour Day (Oct 6, NSW) | Open | Open | 9 AM–6 PM typical |
Christmas Day (Dec 25) | Closed | Closed | All stores closed |
Boxing Day (Dec 26) | Open | Open | Major city stores 8 AM–8 PM |
🧭 Regional Variations
While metro stores usually open on most holidays, regional and rural locations often follow stricter trading laws.
- QLD and SA: Some towns enforce “restricted trading” where supermarkets can’t open before 1 PM on public holidays.
- WA: Sunday trading laws mean even on public holidays, large retailers must operate within fixed time windows.
🛍️ Public Holiday Shopping Tips

- Check the store locator on Woolworths or Coles’ official site before heading out.
- Plan ahead during major holidays like Easter or Christmas — shelves clear fast.
- Online delivery services often run on reduced schedules, so book early.
- Independent grocers (IGA, Foodland) often open longer on holidays when big supermarkets close.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Woolworths open on public holidays in Australia?
Yes, most Woolworths stores open, though with reduced hours depending on the state and holiday.
Are Coles and Woolworths open on the King’s Birthday?
Yes, both usually open on the King’s Birthday holiday, with standard public holiday hours (around 9 AM–6 PM).
Is Woolworths open on Labour Day?
In most states, yes — generally between 9 AM and 6 PM, but smaller stores may close.
Are shops open on ANZAC Day?
Most major supermarkets open after 1 PM, following national trading laws.
Is Woolworths open on Christmas Day?
No, all Woolworths and Coles stores across Australia close on Christmas Day.
What time does Woolworths close on public holidays?
Typically between 5 PM and 8 PM, depending on state rules and location.
🛒 The Shift Toward Online Grocery Shopping on Holidays

Over the past few years, online grocery shopping has become a major player during public holidays. Many Australians now prefer to order ahead through the Woolworths and Coles apps, avoiding crowds and saving time.
Both retailers offer home delivery and Click & Collect services — even on select holidays — although delivery slots tend to fill up quickly around festive periods like Christmas and Easter. Woolworths’ “Delivery Now” feature and Coles’ “Rapid Click & Collect” service are becoming popular for quick top-ups during long weekends.
Interestingly, online shopping trends show that demand peaks the day before a public holiday, with essentials like BBQ meats, beverages, and desserts topping the list. This shift reflects how digital convenience is transforming how Australians plan their celebrations — prioritising comfort and preparation over last-minute store runs.
If the current trend continues, experts predict that within the next five years, holiday e-grocery sales could double, with delivery networks operating more efficiently nationwide — ensuring Aussies can celebrate without worrying about closing times.
📝 Conclusion
Whether it’s a quick milk run or a full grocery shop, knowing Woolworths and Coles’ public holiday hours helps you plan better and avoid disappointment. Most stores remain open across Australia with reduced hours, except for a few key holidays like Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Plan ahead, check your nearest store online, and enjoy your holiday stress-free — with all your essentials covered.
