For many Australians, January 26 is a day of mixed emotions.
While Australia Day is a public holiday and a chance to enjoy a long weekend, the date is also recognised by many as a time of reflection and mourning, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
With Australia Day falling on Monday, January 26, 2026, many people will still be planning how to spend the long weekend.
Whether you’re heading out to the shops or planning on running errands, here’s what’s expected to be open across the country.
Coles
Coles supermarkets are expected to trade largely as normal on Australia Day 2026, although public holiday restrictions will apply in some states.
- ACT and Tasmania stores are expected to open with regular hours
- NSW and Victoria stores are mostly expected to trade
- Queensland stores are expected to operate with reduced public holiday hours
- South Australia will likely see most metro stores closed, with limited CBD and regional trading
- Western Australia and the Northern Territory stores are expected to open with government-approved public holiday hours
Customers should confirm exact opening times via the Coles website.
Bunnings
DIY enthusiasts won’t miss out, with Bunnings Warehouse stores expected to open nationwide across the long weekend.
As in previous years, Trade Centres are likely to remain closed on the public holiday.
Opening times may differ by location, so customers should check the Bunnings website or app for their local store’s hours.
Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor
Most liquor stores under the Coles Group banner are expected to open on Australia Day, though hours will vary significantly by state and council regulations.
Some regional and remote locations, particularly in Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory, may remain closed.
Shoppers are advised to check individual store listings ahead of time.
Woolworths and Big W
Most Woolworths supermarkets and Big W stores are expected to trade across the long weekend, including Australia Day.
However, public holiday closures are common in parts of South Australia, regional Queensland and Western Australia, and select CBD stores may also shut for the day.
Trading hours can differ widely, so Woolworths recommends checking store locators online before heading out.
Dan Murphy’s and BWS
Bottle shops are expected to open with reduced public holiday hours:
- Dan Murphy’s stores will be open, but expect shorter hours (often 10 am to 6/7 pm).
- BWS stores typically open earlier but may close ahead of normal trading times.
As liquor trading laws differ by state, customers should confirm hours with their local store.
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