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?

Most Modern Awards pay 250% (double time and a half) for hours worked on a public holiday. Some industries — particularly retail, hospitality and fast food — pay 225% for casuals (200% penalty + 25% casual loading additive). 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 applied additively to the public holiday penalty rate. So a 250% penalty becomes 275% effective for casuals (250% + 25%). Some awards use the 'compounded' method, where the 25% loading is already baked into the casual ordinary 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

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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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