Daylight Saving Time Concludes Across Australia
Daylight saving time (DST) will officially end in Australia tonight, on Sunday 5 April 2025, marking a significant shift in daily routines for residents in several states. As the clocks go back by one hour, this change signals the transition into the cooler winter months, affecting everything from work schedules to sleep patterns.
When Does Daylight Saving End in 2026?
Daylight saving will finish at 3am Australian eastern standard daylight time (AEDT) on Sunday 5 April 2025. At this moment, clocks will be adjusted back to 2am, effectively reducing afternoon sunlight and extending the evening darkness. This annual event occurs on the first Sunday of April each year, with daylight saving resuming on the first Sunday of October, providing a predictable cycle for planning.
Which States and Territories Observe Daylight Saving?
In Australia, daylight saving is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory. Residents in these areas will need to set their clocks back one hour tonight. Conversely, Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory do not participate in daylight saving, maintaining consistent time throughout the year.
Do Clocks Go Back or Forward Tonight?
Clocks will move backwards by one hour in April as daylight saving ends. While smart devices such as smartphones and computers typically adjust automatically, it is essential to manually update analogue clocks, kitchen appliances, and watches to ensure accuracy. This simple step helps avoid confusion in daily activities.
What Happens If You're Working During the Time Change?
For those working shifts on Sunday when the clocks go back, there is a possibility of working an extra hour. The Fair Work Ombudsman advises employees and employers to review their award or registered agreement for specific terms related to daylight saving time. If no provisions are mentioned, payment is generally based on "by the clock" hours, meaning you are paid for the scheduled shift duration rather than the actual hours worked. This could result in being paid for eight hours even if nine are completed.
How Can You Adjust Your Body Clock?
The end of daylight saving means losing an hour of afternoon sunlight, which can impact sleep and daily routines. However, it also effectively allows for waking up an hour later. To ease the transition, the NSW government recommends gradually adjusting bedtime by 15 minutes each night, maximising exposure to morning light to reset your internal clock, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to minimise disruption.
When Will Daylight Saving Time Start Again?
Daylight saving will recommence in six months, on Sunday 4 October 2025. At 2am Australian eastern daylight time (AEDT), clocks will move forward by one hour to 3am, providing more daylight in the evenings and marking the start of the warmer season. This cyclical change helps optimise daylight usage throughout the year.
