SYDNEY, Australia — Australians heading into the Easter long weekend from April 3 to 6, 2026, face a patchwork of retail trading restrictions that vary significantly by state and territory, with major supermarkets, shopping centres and bottle shops observing closures or reduced hours on Good Friday and Easter Sunday in most jurisdictions.

Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6 are national public holidays, while Easter Saturday and Sunday have different status across the country. Retail trading laws, designed to balance worker protections with consumer needs, create a complex landscape that often catches shoppers off guard, particularly for last-minute grocery or essential purchases.

Major supermarket chains including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi will close most stores nationwide on Good Friday, April 3. Exceptions are limited, with some airport or tourist-area outlets potentially operating in Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. On Easter Sunday, April 5, restrictions tighten further in New South Wales and South Australia, where the majority of stores will remain closed, while Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia allow more outlets to trade, often with reduced hours.

Easter Saturday, April 4, offers the most normal trading across the country, with supermarkets generally open at standard or slightly adjusted hours. Easter Monday sees most chains reopen, though many operate on public holiday schedules with earlier closing times.

Shopping centres follow similar patterns. Westfield and other major malls will close on Good Friday in most locations. On Easter Saturday, most centres open from around 9am to 5pm, with variations in New South Wales and Victoria. Easter Sunday brings closures in New South Wales and South Australia, while centres in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia open with limited hours, typically 10am to 5pm. Easter Monday trading resumes with many centres operating 10am to 5pm or later in select Sydney locations.

Department stores such as Myer, David Jones, Target, Kmart and Big W generally align with mall hours, closing on Good Friday and offering restricted trading on Easter Sunday in restricted states. Hardware retailers like Bunnings often remain open on public holidays with standard hours in many areas, though some locations may adjust.

Bottle shops and liquor outlets face strict rules. Dan Murphy’s, BWS and Liquorland typically close on Good Friday nationwide, with limited or no trading on Easter Sunday in several states. Easter Saturday and Monday usually see normal or slightly reduced operations.

State-by-state differences add complexity. In New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Good Friday and Easter Sunday are restricted trading days, meaning most non-exempt retail must close. Easter Saturday and Monday have fewer restrictions.

Victoria allows more flexibility on Easter Sunday for some supermarkets and centres, though many still operate reduced hours. Queensland has defined trading areas with specific allowable hours for non-exempt shops, particularly on Easter Sunday.

South Australia maintains some of the strictest rules, with many metropolitan stores closed on Easter Sunday and limited options on other days. Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory generally offer more open trading, though individual stores may vary.

Pharmacies, including Chemist Warehouse and independent outlets, often remain open throughout the weekend as essential services, though hours may be reduced. Petrol stations and convenience stores like 7-Eleven typically operate as usual, providing vital access to essentials.

Restaurants, cafes and takeaway outlets generally stay open, though many adopt public holiday menus or hours. Tourist attractions, beaches and outdoor venues see high demand during the four-day break, with families taking advantage of the extended weekend.

Consumer groups advise planning ahead. Shoppers should check specific store locators on retailer websites or apps for exact hours, as individual outlets — particularly in regional areas or tourist precincts — may have exemptions. Airport and service station supermarkets often provide limited options when main stores close.

The Easter period highlights ongoing debates about retail trading laws. Retail industry bodies argue for greater flexibility to meet consumer demand, while unions emphasise worker rights to family time and rest on significant holidays. Some states have deregulated trading in recent years, leading to more consistent access, but the patchwork remains.

For families preparing Easter meals, the advice is clear: stock up before Good Friday or plan for alternatives such as online delivery where available. Many supermarkets offer click-and-collect or delivery services with adjusted schedules during the long weekend.

Tourism operators expect strong domestic travel, with families heading to beaches, regional getaways or staying local for barbecues and gatherings. Public transport and road networks will operate on holiday timetables in many areas.

As Australians enjoy the break — with Good Friday and Easter Monday as national public holidays — retailers prepare for a surge in spending on non-restricted days. The long weekend provides a welcome respite after the busy summer period, though navigating trading restrictions requires some preparation.

Easter 2026 falls slightly later than in some recent years, with Good Friday on April 3. This timing aligns with milder autumn weather in southern states, encouraging outdoor activities.

Retail experts note that while major chains dominate headlines, independent grocers, butchers and bakeries often provide valuable alternatives on restricted days, particularly in suburban and regional communities.

For the latest updates, consumers should consult official state government resources, retailer websites or apps. Trading hours can be subject to last-minute changes based on local conditions or individual store decisions.

The Easter long weekend remains one of Australia’s most significant consumer periods outside Christmas, blending religious observance with family celebrations and retail activity. Understanding the varied trading rules helps shoppers make the most of the break while respecting the holiday’s traditions.

In summary, while Good Friday brings widespread closures and Easter Sunday limits options in several states, Easter Saturday and Monday offer more normal access. Planning ahead remains the best strategy for a stress-free long weekend across Australia.

On the market environment, Sonthalia said, “The conflict will widen first, then shift into a longer phase of economic adjustment and selective repair rather than broad recovery. This is no longer just a geopolitical event—it’s impacting oil prices, LNG, and supply chains, creating an inflation shock. India, being dependent on oil, will feel the impact, and recovery could take time, likely until FY28.”

Regarding buying opportunities, he added, “For foreign investors, returns in dollar terms are less attractive due to rupee depreciation. But for domestic investors, valuations have corrected to near COVID-era levels. Some sectors and companies now look attractive from a three- to four-year perspective. Domestic savings is replacing foreign flows, so one should focus on resilient stocks and valuations.”

When asked about sector preferences, Sonthalia noted, “Sectors benefiting from inflation, commodities, consumption with pricing power, defence, renewables, and hospitals look promising. Financials require selectivity—private banks are solid long-term, while PSU banks offer favourable valuations. Overall, pick and choose carefully, focusing on sectors with resilience.”

The market may be turbulent in the short term, but selective opportunities exist for disciplined investors with a longer-term horizon.

Live Events

Netflix’s popular teen rom-com “XO, Kitty” returns for its third season on April 2, 2026, with all eight episodes dropping at once as fans finally see Kitty Song Covey navigate her senior year at the Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS).

The series, a spin-off from Jenny Han’s “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” universe, has built a dedicated following since its 2023 debut thanks to its blend of heartfelt romance, cultural exploration and high-school drama set against the vibrant backdrop of Seoul. Season 3 picks up after the dramatic Season 2 finale, with Kitty and her friends facing the challenges and excitement of their final year together.

Anna Cathcart reprises her role as the optimistic and matchmaking Kitty Song Covey. The Canadian actress, who first appeared as Lara Jean’s younger sister in the “To All the Boys” film trilogy, has become a breakout star in her own right. Joining her is a returning ensemble cast including Sang Heon Lee as Min Ho, the charming K-pop trainee who has captured Kitty’s heart, along with other KISS students and faculty members who have become fan favorites.

In a highly anticipated crossover, Lana Condor — who portrayed Lara Jean Covey in the original films — guest stars in multiple episodes of Season 3. Netflix confirmed the family reunion in early March 2026, releasing promotional images and a trailer that teased emotional moments between the on-screen sisters. Fans have eagerly awaited this development since the spin-off launched.

The third season was renewed quickly after Season 2 premiered in January 2025 and wrapped production in July 2025. Showrunner Valentina Garza, who took over creative duties, has promised deeper character growth, more complex relationships and continued exploration of themes like identity, first love and cultural belonging for an Asian-American teen living abroad.

Netflix’s Tudum site and promotional materials describe Season 3 as Kitty’s senior year at KISS, filled with new adventures, lingering romantic tension with Min Ho and the pressures of deciding what comes after graduation. Early trailers show Kitty balancing friendships, potential heartbreak and the excitement of new opportunities, while hinting at bigger personal revelations.

The April 2 release date aligns with Netflix’s strategy of dropping full seasons simultaneously, allowing binge-watching over the Easter long weekend in many countries. In the United States, episodes become available at 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time (3:00 a.m. Eastern), standard for most Netflix originals. International viewers will see the season roll out according to local time zones.

Reception to the first two seasons has been largely positive among younger audiences, with praise for the show’s diverse cast, stylish production and light-hearted yet meaningful storytelling. Critics have noted its appeal as comforting, escapist television that handles teen romance with sincerity while incorporating Korean culture and language elements.

“XO, Kitty” stands out in Netflix’s teen programming slate for its international setting and focus on cross-cultural experiences. The series benefits from strong production values in Seoul, featuring authentic locations, K-pop influences and fashion that resonates with global Gen Z viewers.

With Season 3 marking what many assume could be the final chapter — though no official confirmation on future seasons has been made — fans are hoping for satisfying resolutions to ongoing storylines. Will Kitty and Min Ho finally commit? How will the group handle the end of high school? These questions have fueled online speculation and fan theories since Season 2’s cliffhanger.

Jenny Han, the author and executive producer, has remained closely involved. Her books and the film adaptations created a loyal fanbase that carried over to the series. Han has teased that Season 3 honors the emotional core of her stories while expanding the world for television.

Beyond the core cast, Season 3 introduces new characters and deepens existing relationships. Promotional images released in February and March 2026 show Kitty and friends in new settings around Seoul, suggesting fresh storylines involving university applications, family visits and romantic complications.

The series’ soundtrack, featuring K-pop and contemporary tracks, has also been a highlight. Fans expect Season 3 to deliver another memorable playlist that complements the emotional beats.

As the April 2 premiere approaches, Netflix has ramped up marketing with trailers, first-look photos and cast interviews. Anna Cathcart and Sang Heon Lee have shared light-hearted advice for viewers on love and relationships in recent promotional appearances.

For those new to the series, Netflix encourages catching up on Seasons 1 and 2, both available to stream now. The show’s accessible storytelling makes it easy for latecomers to join in, though longtime fans will appreciate the callbacks and character development.

“XO, Kitty” has contributed to Netflix’s success with international and diverse teen content. Its global appeal has helped the streamer reach younger audiences in Asia and beyond, while resonating with viewers who appreciate feel-good stories with substance.

As April 2 arrives, anticipation is high. Whether Season 3 serves as a fitting conclusion or sets up further adventures, fans are ready to return to KISS alongside Kitty for what promises to be an emotional and entertaining senior year.

With just days until release, social media is buzzing with countdown posts, theories and excitement. Many plan watch parties or solo binges over the long weekend.

Netflix has not announced exact runtime details beyond the eight-episode season, but each episode is expected to run approximately 30 minutes, making the full season a manageable binge.

The series continues to highlight important themes for its target audience, including self-discovery, friendship, family dynamics and navigating young adulthood in a globalized world.

As “XO, Kitty” Season 3 premieres on April 2, 2026, it joins a strong slate of spring programming on Netflix. For fans of light romance, cultural stories and coming-of-age tales, the new season offers the perfect springtime escape.