Day of Mourning: Australia to get extra public holiday after death of Queen

Australians are set to get an extra public holiday each year to pay tribute to Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Elizabeth II.

The day to be known as the National Day of Mourning is expected to be held in about two weeks’ time, after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor-General David Hurley return from the Queen’s funeral in London.

One minute’s silence will be observed.

The date is still to be determined and it is undecided whether it will be declared an annual public holiday.

“In the coming weeks, we will commemorate our late Queen with every state honour,” Mr Albanese said.

“I hope all Australians who wish to pay their respects can participate in the gatherings, commemorations and tributes that will be held, as well as share their own reflections and memories.

“The Governor-General and myself will be part of Australia’s presence at Her Majesty’s Funeral. Further details about Australia’s remembrance of Her Majesty The Queen will be announced over coming days.”

Unlike the United Kingdom, Australia has not entered an official period of mourning, but instead is having a 14-day “plan for observance”.

The Australian flag is being flown at half-mast around the country until a day after the funeral is held in the UK.

King Charles III will be proclaimed the new monarch of Australia on Sunday in an unprecedented meeting of the Executive Council, which is made up of the Prime Minister, the Governor-General and Federal ministers.

Federal parliament has been suspended for 15 days with next week’s sitting days cancelled.

Saturday, in a special 32 page commemorative liftout, The West Australian pays tribute to the extraordinary life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We celebrate her life, from early childhood and her ascension to the throne, to life with her beloved Prince Philip and family. Don’t miss this special edition of The West Australian on Saturday.