Good Friday, falling on 3 April 2026, is one of Australia’s most significant public holidays. It’s a day when many businesses, government services, and retailers close their doors, but not everything shuts down. From supermarkets and cafés to fast-food outlets and shopping centres, some places remain open — and in certain areas, you’ll even find shops trading later than usual.
This guide covers what’s open across Australia on Good Friday, where you can find essentials, and which spots stay open into the evening.
Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
Coles and Woolworths are closed nationwide, except for a few rare exemptions such as Brisbane Airport (QLD) and regional outlets like Victor Harbour and Mount Barker (SA). ALDI remains closed Australia-wide. IGA and other independent supermarkets may open, particularly in rural areas, but trading hours vary widely. Always check store listings online before heading out.
Shops and Retailers Open Later Than Usual
While Good Friday trading is restricted in most states, some retailers take advantage of exemptions or deregulated rules:
Victoria (Melbourne)
Large shopping centres like Chadstone, Highpoint, and Doncaster are closed on Good Friday but often reopen on Saturday and Sunday with extended trading hours until 9 pm. Convenience stores, late-night chemists, and service stations remain open — many operate well into the evening, especially in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.
Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory
Trading laws are fully deregulated, meaning most businesses — including small grocers, cafés, and bottle shops — can choose to stay open and often operate later than usual.
Queensland
Major supermarkets remain closed, but small shops, takeaway outlets, and independent grocers in tourist-heavy areas often trade longer than standard public holiday hours. Fast-food chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Domino’s, and Guzman y Gomez typically open as usual and, in some cases, extend hours.
Fast-Food and Convenience Chains (National)
7-Eleven, McDonald’s, KFC, Domino’s, and Hungry Jack’s are your best bets for late-night food and snacks. Many operate 24/7 or close well after midnight, even on Good Friday.
Restaurants, Cafés and Takeaway Options
Good Friday is a big day for dining out, especially in cities like Melbourne and Sydney. Seafood restaurants and fish-and-chip shops often stay open, catering to traditional Good Friday dining. Many independent cafés and casual dining venues trade throughout the day but may close earlier than normal in some states. Larger restaurant precincts in inner-city areas — like Southbank in Melbourne or Barangaroo in Sydney — typically keep standard or extended hours to handle Easter crowds.
Bottle Shops and Alcohol Sales
Alcohol restrictions vary by state. In Victoria and New South Wales, licensed venues may serve alcohol with meals, but most standalone bottle shops remain closed. Queensland and Western Australia enforce stricter bans, with takeaway alcohol prohibited on Good Friday. In South Australia, Tasmania, ACT, and NT, liquor laws are far more relaxed, with some bottle shops and bars trading as normal.
Public Transport and Entertainment
Public transport generally runs on a public holiday timetable. Some areas may have reduced services, so check your local provider before heading out. Cinemas, zoos, aquariums, and tourist attractions usually stay open, making them a great option for families. In Melbourne, the Good Friday Appeal and the annual AFL SuperClash at the MCG offer charity-driven entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Quick Guide: What’s Open and Closed on Good Friday
| Category | Open / Closed | Notes on Late Trading Hours |
| Supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths, ALDI) | Closed | Rare regional exceptions only |
| IGA / Independents | Varies | Some rural IGAs stay open late |
| Convenience Stores and Service Stations | Open | Many trade until late or 24/7 |
| Fast-Food Chains | Open | Some extend hours past midnight |
| Restaurants and Cafés | Mostly Open | Seafood venues busiest |
| Bottle Shops | Mostly Closed | Relaxed rules in SA, TAS, ACT, NT |
| Shopping Centres | Closed Good Friday | Extended hours resume Saturday |
| Public Transport | Reduced Services | Check local timetables |
| Cinemas and Attractions | Open | Great for family outings |
Tips for a Smooth Good Friday
Plan ahead — stock up on groceries the day before. Rely on convenience outlets — service stations and 7-Eleven are your best late-night options. Think seafood — many fish-and-chip shops stay open later than usual to cater for the demand. Check extended hours on Saturday, especially in Melbourne and Sydney, where many shopping centres offer longer hours once restrictions lift. And double-check local rules, as state liquor laws and retail trading hours vary widely.
Only the date needed changing — everything else holds. Note that Good Friday falls notably earlier in 2026 (3 April vs 18 April), so worth flagging that Easter is an early one this year if you want to add a seasonal hook at the top.
