Queen's Birthday

The Queen's Birthday is observed on the second Monday of June throughout most of Australia. Schools, post offices, banks and many other facilities are closed, excepting in Western Australia, on this date. Stores may be closed or have restricted opening hours and there may be some congestion on highways as many people take a short holiday over the long weekend. Public transport services may be reduced.

Australia is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the official head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of England. She was born on April 21, 1926, although her official birthday is celebrated on a different dates in each of the countries of the Commonwealth of Nations.

The Monarch's Birthday was first celebrated in Australia in 1788. In that year, King George III was King of England and Arthur Phillip, first Governor of New South Wales, declared a holiday to mark his birthday.

The Queen's Birthday honours list will also be released on June 14 this year. This announces the names of new members of the Order of Australia and other honours issued by the Australian government or the Queen. These are generally awarded for exceptional service to Australians, Australia or humanity as a whole.

Most Australians have a day off work on the Queen's Birthday. For many, it is a chance to do something special with their family or to visit a sporting event. The Queen's Birthday long weekend also marks the official opening of the snow season in Australia.

To organise travel to the event, contact a Flight Centre Travel Expert on 133 133 for assistance or use the form below.