Christmas Day Trading Hours in Australia 2025: What’s Open

Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25, 2025) is a public holiday across Australia, and most major retailers, supermarkets, and bottle shops close to allow staff to enjoy the festive day with family and friends. If you’re searching for “shops open on Christmas Day,” “bottle shops open Christmas Day,” or specific queries like “is Coles open Christmas Day” or “Woolworths trading hours Christmas Day,” here’s a complete, up-to-date guide based on the latest retailer announcements and news reports.

Major Supermarkets: Mostly Closed

Major chains observe full closures on Christmas Day, with trading resuming (often with reduced hours) on Boxing Day (December 26).

• Coles: All stores are closed nationwide on Christmas Day. Normal hours apply on Christmas Eve (December 24), but check your local store via the Coles Store Locator for any minor variations.
• Woolworths (often called “Woolies”): All stores are closed in every state and territory on Christmas Day. Extended hours are available leading up to Christmas Eve—use the Woolworths Store Locator to confirm your local details.
• Aldi: All stores are closed on December 25. Like the others, reopen on Boxing Day with varying hours.
• Bunnings: All stores are closed on Christmas Day. Hours vary on surrounding days, and Trade Centres/Frame & Truss facilities remain closed until January 5.

IGA Supermarkets: Your Best Bet for Limited Openings

IGA stores are independently owned, so trading hours vary significantly by location. Many IGAs stay closed on Christmas Day, but some open for limited hours to serve last-minute needs (e.g., milk, bread, or basics).

• Check your local IGA directly via the IGA store locator or by calling ahead.
• In some areas (especially regional or tourist spots), IGAs may open briefly (e.g., a few hours in the morning or afternoon).
• If your usual supermarket is closed, search for a nearby IGA or independent grocer—they’re often the only option for essentials.

Bottle Shops & Liquor Stores: Largely Closed, with Rare Exceptions

Bottle shops (including those attached to supermarkets) follow strict public holiday rules, and most are closed on Christmas Day.

• Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland, First Choice, Vintage Cellars: Almost all stores are closed nationwide on December 25. Limited exceptions exist in Victoria and Tasmania (e.g., select stores like Launceston City, Newstead, Devonport, or Hobart locations—always confirm via the store’s website or locator).
• In most states (NSW, QLD, SA, WA, etc.), expect full closures. Stock up on Christmas Eve, as stores reopen on Boxing Day.
• Independent bottle shops or those in certain licensed venues may have different rules—check locally.

Other Essentials & What’s Typically Open

While big retailers shut down, these options often remain available:

• Petrol stations (e.g., 7-Eleven, Coles Express, or independents) and convenience stores: Many open 24/7 or with reduced hours for fuel, snacks, milk, and basics.
• Pharmacies: Some (especially in tourist areas or 24-hour ones) may open for urgent needs.
• Fast food (e.g., select McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, or Domino’s): Limited locations operate—check apps or websites.
• Restaurants, pubs, and cafes: Many offer special Christmas Day menus—book ahead!

Tips to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

• Plan ahead: Do major shopping on Christmas Eve (most stores have extended hours).
• Use store locators: Always verify your specific location, as hours can vary by state, suburb, or even individual store.
• State variations: South Australia and Northern Territory often have extra restrictions on Boxing Day/New Year’s Day (e.g., metropolitan closures).
• For “near me” searches: Use retailer apps/websites with your postcode for real-time info.

Enjoy your Christmas Day, and remember to stock up early—most stores will be back to normal (or close to it) by Boxing Day! For the latest updates, visit official retailer sites or news sources like 9News, 7NEWS, or SBS.Christmas Day Trading Hours in Australia 2025: What’s Open on December 25?