At its meeting on Monday 14 July 2025, Council resolved to apply to the NSW Premier’s Department for a full-day public holiday to support the Albury Gold Cup in 2026 and 2027.

To retain the long-standing connection between the Gold Cup and our city’s calendar, Council will also apply for a half-day alternative as a backup option.

This decision follows strong community and business feedback during consultation in March and April 2025, where:

• 77% supported Council applying for a public holiday
• 69% of community respondents preferred a full-day holiday
• Among businesses, 49% supported a full day

This dual application aims to reflect local sentiment, minimise confusion, and support one of Albury’s most significant annual events.

The application will be submitted by November 2025, with final approval determined by the NSW Premier’s Department.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the consultation.

Business and Community consultation is now closed after extensive community engagement in early 2025.

We're seeking your feedback on whether Albury City Council should make an application for a half or full day public holiday for the 2026 and 2027 Albury Gold Cup events.

The Albury Gold Cup is an event that provides a significant opportunity to showcase Albury as a leading regional centre. Since 1998, AlburyCity has applied to the NSW State Government for a half day public holiday to be declared for the Albury Gold Cup.

AlburyCity is undertaking broad consultation regarding the impact of a public holiday on business activity, employment, tourism and the local economy.

The feedback received will be included as part of a report to council on whether to make an application for a half day, or full day public holiday, or to not proceed with any application to the NSW Government for a public holiday to be declared in the Albury Local Government Area.