As the Australia Day weekend approaches, many of us are looking forward to a bit of relaxation, a barbecue with friends, or simply enjoying the public holiday. But before you get too comfortable, it’s important to remember that this long weekend could throw a spanner in the works when it comes to your shopping routine. Whether you’re planning a last-minute dash to the supermarket for snags and sauce or need to pick up some DIY supplies for a home project, you’ll need to be aware of the altered trading hours that could affect stores nationwide.
Australia Day falls on a Sunday this year, which means the public holiday will be observed on Monday, January 27. This shift can lead to a bit of confusion and potential disruption to the usual shopping hours we’ve all come to know. So, let’s dive into what you can expect from major retailers during this period, ensuring you’re not caught off guard.
Woolworths
Woolworths, affectionately known as ‘Woolies’ to many Aussies, will keep its doors open in NSW, ACT, and Tasmania on both January 26 and 27. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, as individual store hours may vary. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to check the Woolworths website for the specific hours of your local store.
Victoria will see most Woolies open, except for Bourke Street and Collins Square, while Queenslanders will find most stores operational on January 26 except for Gordonvale, Mission Beach, Weipa, Ayr, Bowen, Charters Towers, Mt Isa, Blackwater, Childers, Chinchilla, Kingaroy, Pittsworth, and Roma. Over in WA, Esperance and Katanning will take a break on January 26, and SA/NT’s Millicent store will also be closed.
Coles
Coles supermarkets are set to maintain standard trading hours on Australia Day, with a few minor adjustments here and there. The following day, public holiday trading will see some disruptions, particularly in SA where Adelaide metro stores will be closed, except for the CBD store which will have limited hours. Queensland stores in tourist areas will have extended hours, while regional stores will have a more limited schedule. Again, checking the Coles website for your local store’s hours is a wise move.
ALDI
ALDI fans will be pleased to know that most stores will be open, but as with the other supermarkets, it’s recommended to use their store locator for the most accurate information on trading hours.
Target
For those of you who love a good Target run, all stores will be trading on January 26, but SA will see closures on the public holiday.
Kmart
Most Kmart stores nationwide will remain open on January 26 and 27, but opening and closing times may vary. It’s recommended to check your local store’s hours for accuracy. Additionally, several stores in SA—Firle, Tea Tree, Munno Para, Ingle Farm, Kurralta Park, West Lakes, Port Noarlunga, Marion, and Churchill—will be closed on January 27.
BIG W
BIG W will have its doors open in most states on both days, except for a few SA stores on January 26.
Westfield
Westfield shopping centres will also be operational on the public holiday, but all SA centres will take a day off.
Bunnings
For the handymen and women out there, Bunnings will be your go-to as stores nationwide will remain open throughout the long weekend, though Trade Centres will not. As always, it’s best to check the Bunnings website or app for local store hours.
Liquor Stores
And let’s not forget the liquor stores – Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland, and Vintage Cellars will mostly be open for business, but individual store hours can differ, so do check online to ensure you can stock up on your favourite tipple.
Don’t let unexpected closures take you by surprise this Australia Day weekend! Have you ever faced challenges with public holiday trading hours? What strategies do you use to navigate altered schedules? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Also read: Centrelink branches to close for Australia Day, here’s how you can plan ahead
SA draconian hours, time the little precious ones got off their arse and joined the real world