Eight Hours Day

**Eight Hours Day in Australia** Eight Hours Day, also known as Labour Day in some Australian states, is a public holiday celebrated to honor the achievements of the labor movement, particularly the fight for an eight-hour workday. The holiday is observed on different dates across Australia, depending on the state or territory. For example, it is celebrated on the first Monday in March in Tasmania and Western Australia, the second Monday in March in Victoria, and the first Monday in May in Queensland and the Northern Territory. The origins of Eight Hours Day date back to the 19th century when workers campaigned for better working conditions, including a standard eight-hour workday, which was encapsulated in the slogan "8 hours work, 8 hours recreation, 8 hours rest." The movement gained momentum in the 1850s, and by the late 1800s, the eight-hour workday became more widely adopted. Today, the holiday is marked by parades, community events, and family gatherings, celebrating workers' rights and the contributions of the labor movement to improving working conditions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and the ongoing struggle for workers' rights.