Is Woolworths open on Australia Day 2026? What you need to know

Introduction: Why trading hours on Australia Day matter

Australia Day public holiday trading affects travel plans, grocery runs and liquor purchases for many Australians. Knowing whether major supermarkets are open — and when — helps households plan shopping, avoid crowds and manage holiday events. This report answers the direct question: is Woolworths open on Australia Day, based on current information available for Monday 26 January 2026.

Main details: Woolworths’ 2026 Australia Day trading

Woolworths confirmed open

Woolworths has stated that it will be open on the Australia Day public holiday, Monday 26 January 2026. Specific store confirmations include Woolworths Northside Plaza, which is open from 9am to 6pm on the day. An Instagram notice from a Woolworths outlet also advertised public holiday trading hours of 9am–6pm.

Broader retail context

Industry reporting notes that Coles and Woolworths supermarkets will largely remain open across the country on Australia Day, with public holiday hours applying in most states. Other retail chains will follow varied arrangements: for example, Dan Murphy’s stores are expected to open around 10am and close between 6pm and 7pm, while BWS and Liquorland outlets will trade with reduced hours depending on state and council regulations. Bunnings stores will be open nationwide, though Trade Centres may remain closed. These examples illustrate that while major supermarkets typically operate on public holidays, exact hours vary by location.

Variability between stores

Trading hours are not uniform: some stores list 9am–6pm, while others may open longer or shorter hours. Independent and smaller supermarkets may choose different hours; one example listed Runfresh Supermarket trading 9am–9pm. The key takeaway is that public holiday hours apply and they differ by store and local regulations.

Conclusion: What readers should do

Woolworths will be open on Australia Day 2026, with many stores operating under public holiday hours (commonly 9am–6pm at confirmed locations). Because hours vary by state, council and individual store, readers should check their local Woolworths store’s hours ahead of the holiday to avoid surprises. Doing so will ensure smoother planning for shopping and holiday activities.