Are Op Shops Open on Public Holidays? (2026)

Whether op shops are open on public holidays depends on the store and the day. There is no single rule. Some close on all public holidays; others open with reduced hours on some (e.g. Easter Saturday but not Christmas Day). The only reliable way to know is to check the specific op shop or chain.

This guide explains what usually happens and how you can find out for your local store. For general opening times, see our guide on op shop opening hours.

Why opening varies

Op shops are run by charities and rely on volunteers. On public holidays, many volunteers are unavailable, and labour costs can be higher. So stores often close or open for shorter hours on days like Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and Good Friday. Some open on other public holidays (e.g. Australia Day, Queen’s Birthday) with normal or reduced hours. Each organisation sets its own policy.

How to check if your op shop is open

Before you travel, check the store’s current information:

• Store website or Facebook – many op shops post holiday trading hours.
• Phone the store – a quick call can confirm whether they are open on a specific public holiday.
• Chain websites – for Vinnies, Salvos, Red Cross, and others, the main charity site often has a store locator with hours or a note about public holidays.

Do not assume that because one op shop in your area is open, the one next door is. Opening can differ even between branches of the same chain. For a list of stores near you, see best op shops in your city.

General guide (patterns only, not a guarantee)

Use this as a rough guide only, never as a promise that a particular store will be open:

• Usually closed: Christmas Day and Good Friday, when most op shops shut entirely.
• Often closed or reduced: Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and Anzac Day morning; some open later in the day with shorter hours.
• Many open: Australia Day, Labour Day, and the King’s Birthday, often with normal or slightly reduced hours.

These are general patterns across Australia, and they vary by state, charity, and individual branch. Always confirm with the store you plan to visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are op shops open on Christmas Day?

Almost all op shops close on Christmas Day. Volunteers are with family and most charities treat it as a full closure, so plan your op shopping for before or after the holiday.

Are op shops open on Australia Day?

Many op shops trade on Australia Day, often with normal or slightly reduced hours, but it is not universal. Smaller volunteer-run stores may still close, so check the store’s page or call ahead.

Are op shops open on Good Friday?

Good Friday is one of the most common closure days for op shops. Some open on Easter Saturday instead, so if you want to shop over the long weekend, Saturday is usually a safer bet.

Summary

Op shops may or may not be open on public holidays. Check the store’s website, social media, or call ahead. That way you avoid a wasted trip and can plan your op shopping around days when they are trading.