Australia calendar countdown
Australia Day is getting closer.
Australia Day falls on 26th January, the date the First Fleet arrived in 1788. For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it is also a day of reflection.
Dates for 2026 to 2028 are listed below
Australia Day
The day is also known as Invasion Day or Survival Day by many First Nations people, reflecting its different meanings and histories.
About Australia Day in Australia
Australia Day became a public holiday on the same date in every state and territory only in 1994, although it has been commemorated in various forms since the early nineteenth century. Citizenship ceremonies take place across the country, and the Australian of the Year is announced on the evening before. Many communities hold barbecues, beach days and fireworks, while others hold Survival Day events and gatherings.
When is Australia Day in Australia?
Australia Day is fixed on 26 January each year, although some states give a substitute weekday holiday when the date falls on a weekend.
| Calendar | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Saturday 4 July 2026 | Sunday 4 July 2027 | Tuesday 4 July 2028 |
| Canada | Wednesday 1 July 2026 | Thursday 1 July 2027 | Saturday 1 July 2028 |
| Australia | Monday 26 January 2026 | Tuesday 26 January 2027 | Wednesday 26 January 2028 |
| China | Thursday 1 October 2026 | Friday 1 October 2027 | Sunday 1 October 2028 |
| Japan | Wednesday 11 February 2026 | Thursday 11 February 2027 | Friday 11 February 2028 |
Planning around Australia Day
Book beach parking, ferry crossings and restaurant tables in advance, and check public transport timetables, because services are often altered and city centres close roads for events. Work out shifts and childcare cover with the free shift planner, or browse every holiday countdown.
Australia Day questions
How many days until Australia Day in Australia?
The live counter at the top of this page shows the days, hours, minutes and seconds left until the next Australia Day in Australia, using the time zone you choose. The dates for 2026 to 2028 are in the table above.
When is Australia Day in 2027 in Australia?
In the Australia calendar, Australia Day falls on Tuesday 26 January 2027. The date is different in some other countries, so check the table above for your calendar.
Is Australia Day a public holiday throughout Australia?
Yes, 26 January is a public holiday in every state and territory. Debate about the date continues, and some local councils and organisations hold alternative events or reflections on that day.