May Day in Australia

Labourers in Australia used to work for ten hours a day for six days a week, a struggle that all labourers did not agree of. That is why when the Australian work force achieved the eight hour a day, five days a week work, they marked that day as a significant day among all workers in Australia. May Day, or also known as Labour Day and Eight Hours Day, is an occasion that remembers the granting of the eight hour a day, five days a week labour schedule in Australia.

What is May Day in Australia?

May Day is Australia’s way of giving honour to its work force and its important role in the economy of the nation. In Australia, May Day is recognized as a public holiday in all its states and territories. During the May Day holiday, all public offices and government departments are not operating. Schools have no classes as well. The commercial areas have limited establishments that are open during the celebration of the May Day holiday.

May Day may be a holiday in Australia, but the date of its celebration varies according to its states and territories.

• Western Australia- first Monday of March
• Victoria- second Monday of March
• Tasmania- second Monday of March
• The Northern Territory- first Monday of May
• Queensland- first Monday of October
• Australian Capital Territory- first Monday of October
• New South Wales- first Monday of October
• South Australia- first Monday of October

How the People Celebrate May Day in Australia?

Since the May Day event is a holiday, the people see it as an ideal day to have some relaxation and winding down moments. Many families find this day as an opportunity for recreation, fun, and bonding moments. They usually go to Australia’s countryside and its beaches. They also take this time to slow things down as they go to the Australia’s open spaces to picnic and have play time with the little ones. The May Day holiday is also when friends arrange a meet-up and catch-up on each other’ lives.

How the Labour and Union Groups Observe May Day in Australia?

All over Australia, May Day holiday is also the chance for labour unions and community groups to stage marching in the streets. The march is also often participated by prominent individuals, labour leaders, politicians, and other influential personalities. The march was intended to give cheers for the achievement of the eight hour a day, five times a week work schedule. The march has become a tradition every May Day following Australia’s first May Day march that happened in Queensland on May 1, 1891. It was joined by more than 1000 people carrying banners and placards.