Australian Labour Day
Less than a week after celebrating my first Australian holiday I got to celebrate my second one, Labour Day 6 days after. Labour Day in Australia commemorates the achievements of the Australian labour movement. The celebration of Labour Day has its origins in the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest. The Labour Day public holiday varies considerably between the various states and territories. It is the first Monday in October in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and South Australia. In both Victoria and Tasmania, it is the second Monday in March. In Western Australia, Labour Day is the first Monday in March. In the Northern Territory and Queensland, it is the first Monday in May. Since I live in Queensland it was observed today, May 1st which is also May Day. In the late 19th century, May Day was chosen as the date for International Workers' Day. May Day is a public holiday usually celebrated on May 1st. Today was a nice break and I got off from class and I got to spend the day reading and relaxing at the pool and beach.
