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Mother's Day 2025 in Australia

Dates of Mother's Day in Australia

2026May 10
2025May 11
2024May 12

Related Holiday in Australia

Australia Holiday Calendars

Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, honoring mothers and maternal figures with gifts, flowers, and heartfelt gestures. Families often gather for special meals, outings, or simple moments of appreciation to express love and gratitude.

Mother's Day: A Public Holiday?

Mother's Day is not a public holiday in Australia. Businesses, offices, and schools operate as usual, though many families mark the occasion with gifts, meals, and quality time to honor mothers and maternal figures.

A Mother's Day display in Australia featuring native flowers and a heartfelt sign celebrating the love and appreciation for mums.
Australians celebrate Mother's Day with heartfelt messages and native flowers, honoring the love and dedication of mums. (Image credit: iStock)

Mother's Day

Mother's Day in Australia has its roots in the early 20th century. The idea came from Anna Jarvis in the United States, who wanted to honor her mother and all mothers for their love and care. The tradition soon spread to other countries, including Australia.

In 1924, Janet Heyden from Sydney began promoting Mother's Day by collecting gifts for lonely and elderly mothers in hospitals. Her campaign encouraged others to do the same, and the idea quickly gained popularity. Over time, it became a day for recognizing the efforts and sacrifices of mothers everywhere.

Though it is not a public holiday, Mother's Day is widely observed across Australia. It has become a special occasion for families to express gratitude and love. The tradition continues to be a meaningful part of Australian culture, celebrating mothers' important role in everyday life.

Observance on Mother's Day in Australia

Mother's Day is celebrated in Australia on the second Sunday of May. Families across the country take time to show love and appreciation for their mothers and maternal figures. The day usually begins with thoughtful gestures like breakfast in bed, flowers, or handmade cards. Many children prepare surprises or small gifts to make their mums feel special. It is a day filled with affection and joy.

Going out for a family meal is a popular way to celebrate. Restaurants, cafes, and bakeries often get busy with families enjoying brunch or lunch together. Some schools and community groups hold Mother's Day events in the days leading up to the occasion. Others prefer to stay at home, enjoying a quiet and relaxing day with loved ones. No matter how it's celebrated, the goal is to make mothers feel valued and appreciated.

Mother's Day is important because it recognizes the hard work, love, and care that mothers give every day. It is a reminder to pause and say thank you, not just with gifts but with time and attention. The day also honors grandmothers, stepmothers, and other women who play a caring role in people's lives. Though each family celebrates differently, the sentiment remains the same: mothers are important and deserve recognition. Over time, Mother's Day has grown into a cherished tradition in Australia, highlighting the love, strength, and warmth that mothers bring to their families and communities.

Mother's Day Observances

YearDateWeekdayNameHoliday Type
2024May 12SunMother's DayObservance
2025May 11SunMother's DayObservance
2026May 10SunMother's DayObservance
2027May 9SunMother's DayObservance
2028May 14SunMother's DayObservance