When Is Good Friday 2026?
Good Friday 2026 is on Friday, 3 April 2026. It is a significant Christian observance and a national public holiday in Australia, marking the beginning of the Easter long weekend — one of the most important holiday periods in the Australian calendar.
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Australia, it is a day of reflection for many, while also signalling the start of a four-day long weekend that millions of Australians use for travel, family gatherings, and autumn activities.
Easter Long Weekend 2026
Good Friday
Friday, 3 April 2026
Easter Saturday
Saturday, 4 April 2026
Easter Sunday
Sunday, 5 April 2026
Easter Monday
Monday, 6 April 2026
Note: Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday observance varies by state. Queensland, for example, observes "The Day After Good Friday" rather than Easter Saturday.
Is Good Friday a Public Holiday in Australia?
Yes, Good Friday is a national public holiday in all Australian states and territories. This means most businesses are closed, and employees are entitled to a day off with pay.
According to the Fair Work Ombudsman, if you are required to work on Good Friday, you are generally entitled to public holiday penalty rates under your award or enterprise agreement.
Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|
| Date | Friday, 3 April 2026 |
| Day of Week | Friday |
| Public Holiday | Yes – All States and Territories |
| Long Weekend | Yes – 4-day weekend (Fri 3 – Mon 6 April) |
| Trading Restrictions | Yes – most states restrict retail trading |
Why Does the Date of Good Friday Change Each Year?
Good Friday is a moveable feast, meaning its date changes annually. It is calculated based on the lunar calendar and always falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday is determined as the first Sunday following the first full moon after the March equinox. This is why Easter can fall anywhere between late March and late April.
Good Friday Dates for Upcoming Years
| Year | Date | ISO Format |
|---|
| 2026 | Friday, 3 April | 2026-04-03 |
| 2027 | Friday, 26 March | 2027-03-26 |
| 2028 | Friday, 14 April | 2028-04-14 |
| 2029 | Friday, 30 March | 2029-03-30 |
| 2030 | Friday, 19 April | 2030-04-19 |
Good Friday Traditions and Observances
Good Friday is observed by Christians as the day Jesus Christ was crucified. In Australia, traditions include:
- Church services and reflections — Many Christians attend special Good Friday services
- Hot cross buns — A beloved traditional Easter treat enjoyed across the country
- Abstaining from certain activities — As a mark of respect and reflection
- Trading restrictions — Many states restrict retail trading hours on Good Friday
Many Australians also use the long weekend to travel, spend time with family, or enjoy the autumn weather. Easter camping trips, coastal getaways, and family gatherings are extremely popular.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Good Friday 2026 in Australia?
Good Friday 2026 is on Friday, 3 April 2026.
Is Good Friday a public holiday in Australia?
Yes, Good Friday is a national public holiday observed in all Australian states and territories.
Why does Good Friday change dates every year?
Good Friday is a moveable feast based on the lunar calendar. It falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the March equinox.
What days are public holidays during Easter 2026?
In most states, Good Friday (3 April), Easter Saturday (4 April), Easter Sunday (5 April), and Easter Monday (6 April) are public holidays, though observance varies slightly by state.
Can shops open on Good Friday in Australia?
Trading restrictions apply on Good Friday in most states, with many supermarkets and retail stores closed or operating reduced hours. Check your local state regulations for specific details.
Do I get penalty rates if I work on Good Friday?
Yes, employees required to work on Good Friday are generally entitled to public holiday penalty rates as per their award or agreement. Check with the Fair Work Ombudsman for your specific entitlements.