Labour Day in Western Australia (WA) is a public holiday that is unique to the state, celebrated to honor the workers for their contribution. This holiday has a rich history tracing back to the eight-hour working day movement that advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest. It is acknowledged on different dates across various Australian regions, but in Western Australia, it is observed on the first Monday in March annually.
The inception of Labour Day in Australia can be traced back to the 1850s. It was during this time that stonemasons in Melbourne initiated a movement demanding an 8-hour workday without any decline in wages. This was unprecedented as, during those times, a workday used to last for up to 14 hours. The protest led to the establishment of the Labour Day holiday. It is considered a significant day as it symbolises the struggle for fair work hours and conditions.
In WA, Labour Day is celebrated with various community and sporting events. Parades and rallies are common, often featuring speeches from workers' representatives and unions, and it's also an opportunity for labor unions to highlight current labour issues. Despite its serious origin and continued importance in the labor movement, for many Australians, Labour Day is mostly an opportunity to enjoy a long weekend and the last bit of good weather before fall sets in.