As the Easter long weekend approaches, many Australians are gearing up for a well-deserved break filled with family gatherings, road trips, and perhaps a festive drink or two. It’s a time for relaxation, celebration, and creating memories—but before you get too comfortable, there’s one thing you might want to check first.
While most of us focus on the menu and guest list, few realise how the Easter period quietly brings its own set of liquor trading laws. These regulations can catch even seasoned holidaymakers off guard, with rules changing from state to state and day to day. One moment you’re toasting with a glass of bubbly, and the next you might be facing empty shelves and closed bottle shops.
To help you sidestep any surprises, we’ve rounded up a guide to where you can—and can’t—buy alcohol this Easter long weekend. From strict bans to surprisingly relaxed rules, we’ll make sure you know what’s open, what’s closed, and where you’ll need a meal to get that much-anticipated glass of wine.
New South Wales: The land of restrictions and relaxation
In New South Wales, the Easter weekend starts with normal trading on Thursday, but come Good Friday, a blanket ban on all takeaway alcohol sales comes into effect. This means that bottle shops, pubs, and restaurants will not be selling alcohol to go. However, if you’re keen on a drink, most licensed premises will still serve you a beverage, provided you’re seated and enjoying a meal. Saturday brings a return to regular trading hours for both licensed premises and retail outlets, while Easter Sunday sees normal trading for licensed premises but most retail outlets will be closed.
Victoria: A sip with your supper
Victorians face similar restrictions on Good Friday, with bottle shops generally closed unless they have special permission to operate. On-premise purchases are still on the table, with venues, restaurants, and cafes serving alcohol. If you’re near a brewery or distillery, you’re in luck, as they can start serving from 10 am. The rest of the weekend in Victoria is restriction-free, with regular trading hours in full swing.
Queensland: Meals and mimosas
Queensland’s Good Friday laws also put a pause on takeaway alcohol sales, leading to the closure of retail outlets. However, venues are allowed to serve drinks from 10 am to midnight as long as you’re sitting down for a meal, and they’re quite specific about what constitutes a meal. Think roast beef with vegetables, not a quick snack or a kid’s meal. After Good Friday, normal trading hours resume for the rest of the weekend.
South Australia: The free state
South Australians have it easy when it comes to Easter alcohol laws. Thanks to legal reforms from years past, there are no restrictions on the sale of alcohol on Good Friday or any other day over the long weekend. This means that venues can choose to be open and sell alcohol for both on-premise consumption and takeaways.
Western Australia: A meal with your merlot
In Western Australia, liquor stores will be closed on Good Friday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a drink. Most clubs, hotels, pubs, and restaurants will serve alcohol with a meal, and clubs can stay open until 3 am. After Good Friday, it’s business as usual with regular trading hours.
Northern Territory: Strictly sit-down
The Northern Territory restricts takeaway alcohol sales on Good Friday, but you can still enjoy a drink at venues like restaurants, bars, and clubs from 11 am to 9 pm, provided you’re having a full, sit-down meal. No light bites or snacks if you’re looking to imbibe.
Australian Capital Territory: Party on
In the Australian Capital Territory, where you might expect stricter regulations, there’s actually a party-friendly atmosphere over Easter. There are no restrictions on alcohol sales or trading hours on Good Friday, making it a breeze for those looking to celebrate.
Tasmania: Easy-going island
Tasmania, known for its laid-back vibe, continues the trend with no restrictions on alcohol sales or trading hours over the Easter long weekend. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about when and where to buy your drinks.
As with many holidays, a bit of preparation can help your Easter weekend go smoothly, especially when it comes to knowing when and where you can pick up a drink.
What’s your go-to Easter tradition? Have liquor trading hours ever thrown a curveball into your plans? Feel free to drop your experiences in the comments.
Also read: Drinking this much alcohol could harm your brain—here’s how much is too much
