Australia • February 18, 2026 • Wednesday
Also known as: Ramadan Start
Ramadan is a period of profound spiritual significance, reflection, and community for the more than 800,000 Muslims living across Australia. As the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, it marks the time when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. For observers, it is far more than just abstaining from food and drink; it is a "reset" for the soul. The word "Ramadan" itself stems from the Arabic root ar-ramad, which means "scorching heat," symbolizing the spiritual process of burning away sins through devotion, self-discipline, and acts of charity.
In the Australian context, Ramadan is a beautiful display of multiculturalism. From the historic mosques of Auburn and Lakemba in Sydney to the community centres in Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane, the month transforms the daily rhythm of life for many citizens. It is a time when the values of patience, empathy for the less fortunate, and family bonding take centre stage. The "Ramadan Start" is particularly momentous, as it marks the transition from the ordinary routine into a month of heightened God-consciousness (Taqwa).
The essence of this holy month lies in its ability to foster a sense of global and local belonging. In Australia, where the Muslim community is incredibly diverse—comprising people with ancestral links to Lebanon, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, and many other nations—Ramadan serves as a unifying force. Whether it is through the shared experience of the pre-dawn meal or the collective prayers under the Southern Cross, the start of Ramadan signals a month of peace and spiritual rejuvenation that resonates throughout the entire Australian landscape.
The beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon, which means the exact date can vary slightly depending on geographical location and astronomical calculations. For the upcoming year, the expected timing is as follows:
Official Start Date: February 18, 2026 Day of the Week: Wednesday Countdown: There are 46 days remaining until the fast begins.
In Australia, the "start" of Ramadan actually begins on the evening prior to the first day of fasting. For 2026, the first evening of prayers (Tarawih) is expected to take place on Tuesday, February 17, with the first full day of fasting (the 1st Roza) commencing on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
It is important to note that the Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning it is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar. Consequently, the date of Ramadan is variable, shifting backward through the seasons over a 33-year cycle. Because the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) and local moon-sighting committees make the final call based on the physical sighting of the moon or calculated moonsets, Muslims in Australia are encouraged to stay tuned to their local mosque announcements on the night of the 29th of Shaban (the preceding month).
The history of Islam and the observance of Ramadan in Australia is much older than many realize. Long before European settlement, Muslim fishermen from Makassar (modern-day Indonesia) visited the northern shores of Australia to trade for trepang (sea cucumber) with Indigenous Australians. During these voyages, it is highly likely that the rituals of the Islamic calendar, including the fasting of Ramadan, were observed on Australian soil.
In the 19th century, the arrival of "Afghan" camel drivers—who actually came from various regions including present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan—further established Islamic traditions. They built the first mosques in the Australian outback, such as the Marree Mosque in South Australia. For these pioneers, observing Ramadan in the harsh, arid conditions of the Australian interior was a testament to their faith and resilience.
Following the end of the White Australia Policy in the mid-20th century, migration from countries like Lebanon, Turkey, and later from various African and Southeast Asian nations, saw the Muslim population grow significantly. Today, Ramadan is a mainstream feature of the Australian religious calendar. Prime Ministers and Premiers frequently host Iftar dinners, acknowledging the immense contribution of the Muslim community to the nation’s social fabric. The "Ramadan Start" is now a date noted by supermarkets, schools, and government departments alike, reflecting Australia’s evolution into a truly pluralistic society.
The celebration of the start of Ramadan in Australia is a blend of traditional religious practices and unique local customs. As the sun sets on the evening before the first fast, a sense of anticipation fills the air.
Once the month begins on February 18, 2026, a specific daily rhythm takes over. In 2026, because Ramadan falls in February, Australians will be experiencing the tail end of summer. This means long days and significant heat, especially in the northern and central parts of the country.
In Australia, Iftar has become a major community event. The "Lakemba Ramadan Nights" in Sydney is perhaps the most famous example, where Haldon Street is transformed into a vibrant night market. Thousands of people, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, gather to enjoy street food like camel burgers, carrot juice, and Lebanese sweets.
For those observing Ramadan in Australia, or for non-Muslims wishing to be respectful neighbors, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind for 2026.
Observers should use reliable apps or local mosque calendars to ensure they have the precise timings for their specific suburb.
Ramadan is also the peak period for charitable giving in Australia.
Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, involves giving a portion of one's wealth to those in need. Many Australian Muslims choose to fulfill this obligation during Ramadan to reap the spiritual rewards of the holy month.Local charities like Islamic Relief Australia and Human Appeal Australia run major campaigns during this time. You will often see fundraising dinners and "orphan sponsorship" drives at mosques. Furthermore, "Sadaqa" (voluntary charity) is highly encouraged. Many mosques provide free Iftar meals every night for students, travelers, or those struggling financially, ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry.
In Adelaide, the historic Adelaide Mosque offers daily Iftar meals and lectures, fostering a strong sense of community. In Brisbane, the Logan and Kuraby communities are known for their large-scale interfaith Iftars, where local police, politicians, and church leaders are invited to share a meal and build bridges of understanding.
A common question for newcomers or those planning travel is whether the start of Ramadan is a public holiday.
The answer is no. Ramadan Start is not a national or state public holiday in Australia. Australia is a secular country with a Christian heritage, so the only religious public holidays observed nationally are Christmas and Easter.
However, the lack of an official holiday does not mean the day is "business as usual" for everyone. Here is what to expect regarding closures and operations:
Schools and Universities: They remain open. However, many schools with high Muslim populations may provide a quiet room for prayer or allow students to sit out of vigorous Physical Education (PE) classes if they are fasting. Workplaces: Offices and businesses operate normally. Under Australian Fair Work laws, employees can request flexible working arrangements for religious reasons, and many employers are happy to allow earlier start times or shorter lunch breaks to accommodate an earlier finish. Retail and Dining: Most businesses remain open. In areas with large Muslim communities (like Bankstown in Sydney or Broadmeadows in Melbourne), you might find that some smaller, Muslim-owned cafes close during the day and stay open very late into the night to serve the Iftar and Suhoor crowds. Public Transport: Operates on a standard weekday or weekend schedule.While the start of the month isn't a day off, the
end of the month—Eid al-Fitr—is a time when many Muslims will take a day of annual leave to celebrate with their families.As February 18, 2026 approaches, the Australian Muslim community prepares for a journey of the spirit. It is a month that tests physical endurance but nourishes the soul. In the heat of the Australian February, the act of fasting becomes a powerful symbol of devotion.
Whether you are heading to the Lakemba markets to soak up the atmosphere, joining a friend for Iftar, or observing the fast yourself, Ramadan in Australia is a unique experience. It reflects the nation's character—a blend of ancient tradition and modern Australian life.
Key Dates to Remember for 2026:
Expected Start: Evening of February 17, 2026. First Day of Fasting: Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Approximate End: March 18 or 19, 2026 (followed by Eid al-Fitr).During these 46 days leading up to the start, the focus remains on preparation—both physical and spiritual—to ensure that the month is spent in the best possible way. To all those observing in Australia and around the world: Ramadan Mubarak.
Common questions about Ramadan Start in Australia
In 2026, the first day of fasting for Ramadan in Australia is expected to be Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The observance begins on the evening of February 17, following the sighting of the moon. As of today, there are approximately 46 days remaining until the holy month commences. It is important to note that the exact start date is subject to local moon sighting confirmation by the Australian National Imams Council, which may cause the date to shift slightly across different states and territories.
No, Ramadan is not a national public holiday in Australia. It is a religious observance followed by the Muslim community. Businesses, government offices, and schools remain open as usual. However, some Australian workplaces and educational institutions may offer flexible arrangements for Muslim staff or students, such as adjusted break times or prayer spaces. While it is a normal working period, the end of the month is often marked by large community celebrations for Eid al-Fitr, which may involve some individuals taking private leave.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims in Australia and around the world. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. The month is dedicated to spiritual purification, self-discipline, and reflection. By 'burning away' sins through fasting, participants aim to strengthen their relationship with God and develop greater empathy for those less fortunate. It is a time for increased charity, patience, and communal unity within the diverse Australian multicultural landscape.
When Ramadan falls in February, as it does in 2026, Australian Muslims face long daylight hours and summer heat. The fast begins with 'Sehri' (a pre-dawn meal) and ends at 'Iftar' (the sunset meal). In cities like Sydney and Canberra, the daily fast can last approximately 16 hours, starting as early as 4:00 AM and ending after 8:00 PM. To manage the heat, those fasting focus on high-energy foods and hydration during non-fasting hours. Daily routines often shift to include 'Tarawih' prayers at mosques late into the evening.
Australian Muslims come from diverse backgrounds including Lebanese, Pakistani, Turkish, and Indonesian heritage, which is reflected in the food. The fast is traditionally broken with dates and water, followed by a large meal called Iftar. Community Iftars are very common, where mosques and community centers, such as the Adelaide Mosque, host large gatherings. Customs include reciting the Quran, performing extra nightly prayers called Tarawih, and engaging in 'Zakat' or charitable giving to support the needy both locally and abroad.
Yes, non-Muslims are often encouraged to participate in the spirit of Ramadan. Many Australian mosques and Islamic organizations host 'Interfaith Iftars' where members of the wider community are invited to share a meal and learn about the faith. It is a great opportunity for cultural exchange. If you wish to attend, it is recommended to RSVP through local Islamic centers. When visiting a mosque, guests should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering prayer halls as a sign of respect.
For tourists, daily life in Australia remains largely unchanged as it is a secular country. Shops, restaurants, and attractions operate normally. However, you may notice increased traffic and activity around mosques during the evenings. It is polite to avoid eating or drinking noticeably in front of friends or colleagues who are fasting. If you are meeting someone who observes Ramadan, a friendly greeting like 'Ramadan Mubarak' (Blessed Ramadan) is well-received. In the summer heat, tourists should ensure they stay hydrated while being mindful of those around them who are abstaining.
Because Australia is a vast continent, prayer and fasting times vary significantly by latitude and longitude. For the first day of Ramadan 2026, Sehri in Sydney is expected around 4:49 AM, while the Iftar sunset meal will be around 9:07 PM. In contrast, Canberra may see Iftar at 8:12 PM. Generally, southern cities like Melbourne and Hobart have longer daylight hours in February than northern cities like Darwin. Australian Muslims typically use mobile apps or local mosque timetables to track the exact minute-to-minute requirements for their specific location.
Ramadan Start dates in Australia from 2010 to 2025
| Year | Day of Week | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Sunday | March 2, 2025 |
| 2024 | Tuesday | March 12, 2024 |
| 2023 | Thursday | March 23, 2023 |
| 2022 | Saturday | April 2, 2022 |
| 2021 | Tuesday | April 13, 2021 |
| 2020 | Friday | April 24, 2020 |
| 2019 | Monday | May 6, 2019 |
| 2018 | Wednesday | May 16, 2018 |
| 2017 | Saturday | May 27, 2017 |
| 2016 | Tuesday | June 7, 2016 |
| 2015 | Thursday | June 18, 2015 |
| 2014 | Sunday | June 29, 2014 |
| 2013 | Tuesday | July 9, 2013 |
| 2012 | Friday | July 20, 2012 |
| 2011 | Monday | August 1, 2011 |
| 2010 | Wednesday | August 11, 2010 |
Note: Holiday dates may vary. Some holidays follow lunar calendars or have different observance dates. Purple indicates weekends.