Labour Day, observed in Queensland (QLD), is a public holiday in Australia that commemorates the achievements of workers and the labour movement. In Queensland, this holiday is celebrated on the first Monday in May. Like other states, Queensland's Labour Day is connected to the historic eight-hour day movement, which advocated for a balanced division of the day: eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.
The origins of Labour Day in Queensland date back to the 1880s when workers began campaigning for better working conditions. On 1 March 1858, Brisbane building trades workers held a demonstration for the eight-hour day, following the successful movement in Victoria. By 1889, a large parade was held in Brisbane to celebrate Labour Day, with trades unions and workers marching through the streets as a demonstration of the growing strength of the labour movement.
Queensland's Labour Day has historically been marked by strong trade union involvement, with the holiday becoming officially recognized in 1901. Throughout the 20th century, the day became increasingly significant as a celebration of workers' rights and achievements.On Labour Day in Queensland, many residents enjoy the long weekend with family gatherings, community events, and the traditional Labour Day marches in major cities like Brisbane. These marches continue to highlight the importance of workers' rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. The holiday serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and the significant progress that has been made over the decades in improving working conditions across the state.