Confirmed reports across all Australian states and territories—from New South Wales to Western Australia—verify that today, Friday, April 3, 2026, is a designated national public holiday.

As millions of Australians prepare for the Easter long weekend, the search query "is today a public holiday" has surged to the top of trending charts, primarily driven by residents checking for essential service closures and the strict retail trading laws that govern this specific day.

In a related context, the answer to "is today a public holiday" comes with significant implications for the retail and hospitality sectors.

Unlike other holidays, Good Friday is considered a "restricted trading day" in most jurisdictions. This means that major supermarket chains like Coles and Woolworths, as well as large shopping centres (Westfield), are legally required to remain closed.

Smaller "exempt" convenience stores and pharmacies may remain open, but the general rule for those asking "is today a public holiday" is to expect a near-total shutdown of commercial activity.

For their part, public transport networks in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are operating on "Sunday or Holiday" timetables.

Commuters and travelers heading to the "Sydney Royal Easter Show" or the "Rip Curl Pro" at Bells Beach are advised that while the answer to "is today a public holiday" is a resounding yes, it also means less frequent trains and buses.

Furthermore, the hospitality industry often applies a "public holiday surcharge" of 10% to 15% on cafes and restaurants that choose to stay open, a crucial detail for those planning family brunches.

The authorities explained that all government offices, post offices (Australia Post), and banks are closed today and will remain so through the Easter Monday holiday.

We advise everyone to check local council regulations regarding "double demerit points," which are now in effect across several states to ensure road safety during the holiday rush.

So, if you are wondering "is today a public holiday," the answer is yes—it is a day for rest, family, and reflection, with almost all major services resuming only after the long weekend concludes.