Good Friday always seems to sneak up faster than expected. One moment you’re planning a quiet long weekend, and the next you’re wondering if you left your grocery run too late. If Coles is your go-to supermarket, you’re probably asking the same question thousands of Australians search every year: is Coles open on Good Friday?
The short answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. It depends on where you live, local trading laws, and even the specific store. Let’s break it down clearly, without the confusion.
The Short Answer: Mostly Closed, With a Few Exceptions
In most parts of Australia, Coles stores are closed on Good Friday. This includes major states like:
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- Queensland
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
Good Friday is a national public holiday with strict trading rules, especially for large supermarkets.
However, some locations may operate limited hours, mainly in:
- South Australia
- Northern Territory
These openings are usually tied to local laws or special exemptions, and not all stores qualify.
Why Coles Closes on Good Friday
Good Friday is one of the most protected public holidays in Australia. Trading laws are designed to give workers time off and preserve the cultural and religious significance of the day.
Large retailers like Coles must follow:
- State-based retail trading laws
- Public holiday employment rules
- Local council restrictions
That’s why you’ll often see Coles stores shut completely, even though smaller shops or independent grocers might remain open.
A Common Good Friday Shopping Scenario
Imagine it’s Good Friday morning, you’ve got family coming over, and you suddenly realize you forgot dessert. You jump in the car, pull into the Coles car park… and it’s completely empty. The lights are off, doors locked, and there’s a handwritten sign pointing customers to trading hours for Saturday.
That exact thing happened to me a few years ago, and I’ve never forgotten to check holiday hours since.
Coles vs Other Supermarkets on Good Friday
Here’s a simple comparison to help you plan better:
| Supermarket | Good Friday Status | Notes |
| Coles | Mostly closed | Some SA & NT stores may open |
| Woolworths | Mostly closed | Similar rules to Coles |
| Aldi | Closed nationwide | No exceptions |
| IGA | Often open | Depends on owner |
| Local grocers | Often open | Limited hours |
This is why many Australians rely on IGA or local stores during Easter public holidays.
State-by-State Breakdown (General Guide)
While exact hours vary by store, this gives you a realistic expectation:
- NSW & VIC: Coles stores remain closed
- QLD: Closed statewide
- WA: Closed
- SA: Selected stores may open for reduced hours
- NT: Some stores may trade
- TAS: Closed
Because these rules can change, Coles usually updates holiday hours on their store locator before Easter.
How to Check If Your Local Coles Is Open
Instead of guessing, do this:
- Visit the Coles store locator
- Search by suburb or postcode
- Check the holiday trading hours
- Look specifically for “Good Friday”
This takes less than a minute and can save you a wasted trip.
What to Do If Coles Is Closed
If Coles isn’t open in your area, you still have options:
- Shop on Thursday night before Good Friday
- Visit a local IGA or independent grocer
- Use petrol station convenience stores for basics
- Plan meals using pantry items
A little planning goes a long way during Easter weekend.
Why People Search This Every Year
Searches for Coles opening hours spike every Easter because:
- Rules change by state
- Information online is often outdated
- People assume supermarkets operate like normal weekends
The confusion isn’t your fault. Australian public holiday trading laws are complex, even for locals.
Does Coles Open on Easter Saturday and Sunday?
Yes, and this is where things get easier.
- Easter Saturday: Coles is open (normal or slightly reduced hours)
- Easter Sunday: Open in most states
- Easter Monday: Open, but may close earlier
Good Friday is the main exception.
Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
If there’s one takeaway here, it’s this: don’t leave grocery shopping until Good Friday. Even if one store in your city opens, it may be crowded or close early.
Many families now do a full shop by Thursday evening to avoid the stress altogether.
Related: What thealite.com.au Is in Australia: A Clear, Honest Look
Conclusion
So, is Coles open on Good Friday?
For most Australians, no. Coles stores are generally closed, with only a handful of exceptions in certain regions.
Your safest move is to check your local store’s hours in advance and plan your shopping before the holiday. It saves time, fuel, and frustration—especially when the long weekend should be about relaxing, not racing between closed supermarkets.
FAQs
Is Coles closed on Good Friday every year?
In most states, yes. Good Friday trading rules are consistent year to year, though local exceptions can apply.
Are any Coles stores open on Good Friday?
Some stores in South Australia and the Northern Territory may open with limited hours.
Can I order Coles online on Good Friday?
Online delivery and Click & Collect are usually unavailable on Good Friday.
What time does Coles open after Good Friday?
Most stores reopen on Easter Saturday, often with standard weekend hours.
Is Woolworths open if Coles is closed?
Usually not. Woolworths follows similar public holiday rules, though local IGAs may be open.
Leave a Reply