Labour Day

Labour Day History

Labour Day is celebrated annually in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), and South Australia (SA) to honor the workers and the labour movement. This important observance commemorates the significant contributions made by workers towards the progress and development of the nation. It also highlights the eight-hour working day movement, which successfully established fair working hours and conditions for employees.

The history of Labour Day in Australia dates back to 1856 when stonemasons in Victoria requested an eight-hour workday, which led them to hold one of the world's first organized labour marches. This significant event later inspired similar movements in other parts of the country, resulting in the official celebration of Labour Day as a public holiday in several states and territories. Today, Labour Day remains an integral part of Australian culture as it recognizes the past struggles of Australian workers, encourages improved working conditions, and fosters unity among diverse workers.

In Australia, Labour Day is celebrated through various events, parades, and regional festivities. These activities showcase the achievements of workers and trade unions while fostering a sense of community among both union members and the general public. In the ACT, NSW, and SA, Labour Day occurs at different times, depending on each region's specific legislation. In the ACT and NSW, it is usually celebrated on the first Monday of October, while in SA, it takes place on the first Monday of March each year.

Top facts & quotes about Labour Day

• In Queensland, the first Labour Day celebration was held in Brisbane on 16 March 1861.
• The original work week was reduced to 48 hours (6 days a week at 8 hours a day). The five-day week was only adopted in 1948.
• The march that took place on 21 April 1856, saw stonemasons marching from the University of Melbourne to the Parliament House.
• Choose a job that you love, and you'll never have to work a day in your life - Confucius
• All life demands struggle. Those who have everything given to them become lazy, selfish, and insensitive to the real values of life. The very striving and hard work that we so constantly try to avoid is the major building block in the person we are today. - Pope Paul VI

In the News and Trending for Labour Day

Top things to do for Labour Day

• Enjoy the long weekend during the height of the Australian summer. Get out and take advantage of the weather by having a BBQ or park day.
• Watch a documentary about the lack of workers' rights in other countries. Some of our favourites: Santa's Workshop, Rednecks and Culchies and Apple's Broken Promises.
• Attend a local Labour Day Parade. Most local communities host their own parade or head to a city centre and join in on the larger parade.
• Read a popular book to help shape your perspective of workers' rights. Our favourites include: Gender, Labour and Power in the Global Apparel Industry, Fugitive Denim, Making Sweatshops and The Power to Choose.