Australia's Daylight Saving Time Concludes in April 2026
As winter approaches, daylight saving time (DST) will end in Australia on Sunday 5 April 2026, marking a shift in daily schedules across several states. This annual adjustment sees clocks go back by one hour, providing more morning daylight but reducing evening sunlight, a change that impacts everything from work hours to personal sleep patterns.
When and Where Does Daylight Saving Finish?
Daylight saving officially concludes at 3am Australian eastern standard daylight time (AEDT) on the first Sunday of April, which in 2026 falls on 5 April. At this moment, clocks will revert to 2am, effectively ending the extended afternoon light enjoyed during the warmer months. This practice is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory. In contrast, Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory do not participate in daylight saving, maintaining consistent time year-round.
How to Adjust Clocks and Body Clocks
While smart devices typically update automatically for the time change, manual adjustments are necessary for analogue clocks, watches, and kitchen appliances, which should be set back by one hour. The shift can disrupt sleep routines, as noted by the NSW government, which recommends gradual adjustments to minimise impact. Experts suggest moving bedtime earlier by 15 minutes each night in the days leading up to the change, maximising exposure to morning light to help reset the body's internal clock, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to avoid fatigue.
Workplace Implications and Future Dates
For employees working overnight shifts when clocks go back, there is a potential to work an extra hour. The Fair Work Ombudsman advises checking employment awards or agreements for specific terms on daylight saving. If no provisions exist, payment is generally based on scheduled hours rather than actual hours worked, meaning an employee might be paid for eight hours even if they work nine. Looking ahead, daylight saving will resume on the first Sunday of October, with clocks moving forward one hour at 2am AEDT on 4 October 2026, restoring longer evenings.
