Along with ocean dips, backyard barbies and Weis Bars, one of the real joys of summer* (*or "almost summer") is the return of Daylight Savings. (And yes, technically it’s daylight saving, but for some reason most of us seem to add an 's'). The great news is that those longer, light-filled evenings will be here in the blink of an eye – when you wake up tomorrow morning, our phone and computer clocks will have changed. Here’s a handy explainer covering what you need to know about Daylight Savings starting in NSW, and what it means for your precious sleep schedule.
When does Daylight Savings start in NSW?
Daylight savings begins every year on the first Sunday in October at 2am local time. This year, that date lands on Sunday, October 5 (tomorrow!). That means from Sunday night onwards, you’ll get to enjoy an extra hour of daylight in the evenings – perfect timing for NRL Grand Final night, too. It'll feel like the game is starting an hour earlier than it actually is.
Do we lose or gain an hour when Daylight Savings starts in NSW?
Unfortunately, this is the part that stings: when the clocks jump forward at 2am on October 5, we lose an hour of sleep as the time skips straight to 3am. It’s a small price to pay, though, for those gloriously long afternoons and sunset catch-ups that follow.
Do I turn the clock back or forward for daylight savings in NSW?
Your phone or computer will sort itself automatically, but if you’ve got an analogue clock on the wall or by your bed, you’ll need to move it forward by one hour when you wake up on Sunday, October 5. Or, do yourself a favour and change it the night before so you’re not running late for your morning coffee with a mate.
Can never remember which way the clock goes? Just think of the classic saying: “Spring forward, fall back.”
What does this mean for interstate time conversions? Which Australian states observe Daylight Savings?
Daylight savings is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Norfolk Island.
The rest – Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands – skip the change altogether. So if you’re travelling interstate or planning a video call across borders, take note of the (new) time difference.
Why does NSW have Daylight Savings?
Australia first introduced daylight saving back in 1916, during World War I and II, as a way to conserve energy and make better use of natural light. By shifting the clock forward, soldiers (and civilians) could work longer in daylight hours.
While all states took part during the wars, Tasmania made it permanent in 1968, and NSW, Victoria, South Australia and the ACT followed in 1971.
When does Daylight Savings end in NSW?
You’ll get that lost hour back when daylight saving wraps up on Sunday, April 5, 2026. Clocks will move back one hour, marking the end of those long evenings and the return of cooler, darker mornings. Make the most of the extra night light while you can.
What are the benefits of Daylight Savings?
Plenty! Longer daylight hours mean more time to get outdoors – whether that’s sport, a beach session, a walk with mates, or a twilight dinner in the park. Businesses in hospitality, retail and tourism also see a welcome lift as people make the most of the extended sunshine. And of course, those warm evenings, sunset views and extra Vitamin D all do wonders for the mood. Happy *summer, NSW!
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