When is King's Birthday in 2026?

King's Birthday 2026 falls on Monday 8 June in NSW, VIC, SA, TAS, ACT and NT. Queensland observes it on Monday 5 October 2026. Western Australia observes Western Australia Day instead on Monday 28 September 2026.

What is the standard penalty rate for King's Birthday?

It depends on your Modern Award. The Retail, Hospitality, Fast Food and Restaurant awards pay 225% (double time and a quarter) for full-time and part-time employees and 250% for casuals. The Clerks Award and many others pay 250% (double time and a half) and 275% for casuals. Always check your specific Modern Award clause.

Do casuals get casual loading on top of the public holiday penalty?

Yes — under most awards the 25% casual loading is added to the public holiday percentage, and the total is applied to the minimum hourly rate. So a 225% permanent rate becomes 250% for casuals (Retail, Hospitality, Fast Food, Restaurant), and a 250% rate becomes 275% (Clerks). The percentage is not applied on top of the casual hourly rate. Check your award's public holiday clause.

Can my employer force me to work on King's Birthday?

Your employer can request you work a public holiday, but the request must be 'reasonable' under NES s114. You can refuse if the request is unreasonable. Factors include: the nature of the workplace, your personal circumstances (caring, religious beliefs), the notice given, your contract type (casuals can typically refuse), and whether you receive an additional benefit for working it.

Do permanent employees get paid if they DON'T work King's Birthday?

Yes — if the public holiday falls on a day you would normally work, you're entitled to your ordinary rate of pay even though you don't work. This is the National Employment Standard public holiday entitlement (s116). Casuals don't get this — they only get paid for actual hours worked.

King's Birthday 2026 Penalty Rate Calculator

Calculate your pay for King's Birthday public holiday on Monday 8 June 2026 (QLD 5 Oct, WA 28 Sep). State-aware, award-aware, casual loading included.

Last verified: 2 August 2026

State or territory*

King's Birthday is observed on different dates by state. WA observes Western Australia Day instead.

Base hourly rate*

Your ordinary hourly rate before any loading or penalty.

Hours worked on the public holiday*

hrs

Employment type*

Award penalty multiplier*

Enter the permanent (full-time/part-time) rate from your Modern Award. Retail, Hospitality, Fast Food and Restaurant awards pay 225%; the Clerks Award and many others pay 250%. Casuals: the 25% loading is added on top.

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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.

King's Birthday 2026 Penalty Rate Calculator

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