VIC public holidays 2025 are the official days set by the Victorian Government when most businesses, schools, and public offices close, and workers are entitled to time off with public holiday pay.
These holidays include both national events (like Christmas and ANZAC Day) and state-specific days (like Labour Day and Melbourne Cup Day).
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What Counts as a Public Holiday in Victoria?
A Victorian public holiday in 2025 refers to any date gazetted by the state government under the Public Holidays Act 1993. These holidays may vary by:
- Statewide recognition (e.g. Labour Day, King’s Birthday)
- National coverage (e.g. Christmas Day, New Year’s Day)
- Regional substitutions (e.g. some councils swap Melbourne Cup Day for a local show day)
Example: While Melbourne observes Melbourne Cup Day on 4 November 2025, Ballarat observes Ballarat Show Day instead.
Quick List of VIC Public Holidays 2025
| Date | Holiday | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, 1 Jan | New Year’s Day | National public holiday |
| Monday, 27 Jan | Australia Day (substitute) | As 26 Jan falls on Sunday |
| Monday, 10 Mar | Labour Day | VIC only |
| Friday, 18 Apr | Good Friday | National |
| Saturday, 19 Apr | Day Following Good Friday | VIC only |
| Sunday, 20 Apr | Easter Sunday | VIC only |
| Monday, 21 Apr | Easter Monday | National |
| Thursday, 25 Apr | ANZAC Day | National |
| Monday, 9 Jun | King’s Birthday | VIC only |
| Tuesday, 4 Nov | Melbourne Cup Day | Metro Melbourne only |
| Wednesday, 25 Dec | Christmas Day | National |
| Thursday, 26 Dec | Boxing Day | National |
📝 Note: Regional councils may substitute Melbourne Cup Day with local show days. Check your local council’s website for exact details.
Regional Holiday Replacements
Some areas outside of metropolitan Melbourne observe different holidays. Examples:
- Bendigo Cup Day – 30 October 2025
- Wangaratta Cup Day – 25 March 2025
- Warrnambool Show Day – 24 October 2025
What’s Open on Public Holidays in Melbourne?
Most supermarkets, petrol stations, and cafés operate on limited hours. Essential services stay open, but:
- Major retailers like Kmart, Coles, and Bunnings typically close on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
- Melbourne’s public transport runs on a public holiday timetable.
- Many events, markets, and festivals happen on long weekends—check our seasonal guides.
Make the Most of Long Weekends
The following dates form long weekends perfect for getaways or staycations:
- Australia Day: 25–27 Jan (Sat–Mon)
- Labour Day: 8–10 Mar (Sat–Mon)
- Easter: 18–21 Apr (Fri–Mon)
- King’s Birthday: 7–9 Jun (Sat–Mon)
- Christmas–Boxing: 25–28 Dec (Thu–Sun)
Need ideas? Try:
- Phillip Island Penguins
- Great Ocean Road drive
- Grampians hiking
- Dandenong Ranges day trip
FAQs
Is Melbourne Cup Day a public holiday across all Victoria?
No, only metro Melbourne and selected regional councils observe it. Others substitute with local show days.
Do trams run on public holidays in Melbourne?
Yes, but on a Sunday or public holiday schedule. Check ptv.vic.gov.au for updates.
Victoria School Holidays 2025
Planning a family trip or extended break? See how public holidays align with school terms in our VIC School Holidays 2025 calendar for exact term dates and break periods across Melbourne and Victoria.