Being strategic about your annual leave planning can make a world of difference to your holidays. Lining up your annual leave with public holidays effectively in 2025 will allow you to travel more, with less!
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maximise your annual leave in each state and territory, along with top tips on why taking breaks is essential for your mental health.
Each state has unique public holidays that can be leveraged to maximise time off. Below are key dates to consider for longer caravan and camping trips!
January:
All States: Australia Day Holiday – Monday, January 27
Leave Hack: Take four days of leave (January 28-31) and enjoy nine days off (January 25 to February 2). Start the year with a refreshing getaway.
April:
All States: Easter and ANZAC Day – Good Friday, April 18, Easter Monday, April 21, ANZAC Day, Friday April 25
Leave Hack: Take seven days of leave (April 14-17 and April 22-24) to gain a massive 16-day break from April 12 to April 27.
June:
SA, NSW, VIC, TAS, NT: King’s Birthday – Monday, June 9
Leave Hack: Take four days of leave (June 10-13) to create a nine-day break (June 7-15).
October:
NSW, ACT, SA: Labour Day – Monday, October 6
Leave Hack: Take four days of leave (October 7-10) to achieve a nine-day break (October 4-12).
December/January:
All States: Christmas/New Year’s – Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day),Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day), Thursday, January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day)
Leave Hack: Use seven days of leave strategically (December 22-24, December 29-31, and January 2) to unlock a 16-day break (December 20 – January 4, 2026).
State-Specific Holiday Hacks
Victoria:
Melbourne Cup Day – Tuesday, November 4
Take one day off on November 3 for a four-day weekend (November 1-4).
AFL Grand Final Holiday – TBC
Enjoy an extra day off with no leave required around October.
ACT:
Canberra Day – Monday, March 10
Take an additional days leave on Friday, March 7 or Tuesday, March 11 for a 4-day break.
Reconciliation Day – Monday, June 2:
Take leave on Friday, May 30 or Tuesday, June 3 for an extra-long weekend.
Queensland:
Ekka Public Holiday – Wednesday, August 13 (Brisbane)
Take two days off (August 14-15) to get a five-day break (August 13-17).
Western Australia:
Western Australia Day – Monday, June 2
Take four days off after the holiday (June 3-6) for a nine-day break (May 31 to June 8).
Tasmania:
Eight Hours Day – Monday, March 10
Take some extra time off on Friday, March 7 or Tuesday, March 11 for a mini-break!
(Northern Tasmania) Recreation Day – Monday, November 3
Use one of your leave days on Friday, October 31 or Tuesday, November 4 to enjoy some relaxing time off.
Northern Territory:
May Day – Monday, May 5
Take some extra time off on Friday, May 2 or Tuesday, May 6 for a mini-break!
Picnic Day – Monday, August 4
Use one of your leave days on Friday, August 1 or Tuesday, August 5 to enjoy some relaxing time off.
South Australia:
Adelaide Cup Day – Monday, March 10
Take an extra day on Friday, March 7 or Tuesday, March 11 for an extended weekend to unwind!
Key Tips for Maximising Your Leave Entitlements
Plan and Book Early: Popular holiday dates fill up quickly, so submit leave requests as soon as possible. Book ahead at your favourite holiday park especially around Easter and Summer holidays, so you don’t miss out!
Bookend Weekends: Strategically plan your leave around weekends. Taking just a few days off can turn into a full week away when combined with weekends.
Consider Workplace Commitments: Some industries have busy times of the year and can be reluctant to grant leave during these periods. Check ahead and be aware of these periods at your own workplace.
Be Flexible: If your exact dates aren’t available, be prepared to adjust slightly to still create an extended break. Using half-days before/after a holiday is a great way to satisfy your travel needs and keep your boss happy.
The Importance of Taking Annual Leave
Taking time off isn’t just about adventure—it’s about recharging. Regular breaks reduce stress, prevent burnout, and support mental well-being, helping you return to work refreshed and motivated. Studies show that time away improves mood, boosts productivity, and strengthens relationships.
So, plan strategically to maximise your leave, embrace downtime, and get ready to explore Australia’s stunning landscapes, one holiday hack at a time.
