Australia welcomes 2026 with a national guide to New Year’s Eve celebrations
As Australia prepares to be one of the first countries in the world to welcome 2026, major cities across the nation are implementing massive safety and transport plans to manage record-breaking crowds. From the iconic Sydney Harbour to the tropical shores of Darwin, here is how the country is preparing for the big night.
Sydney: High security and expanded fireworks
Sydney is bracing for over a million people around the harbour foreshore. Following recent security reviews after the Bondi attack earlier this month, NSW Police have announced a “huge” presence, which will include officers carrying long-arm firearms to ensure public safety in high-density areas.
- Expanded display: Fireworks will be launched from more locations than ever before, including six city rooftops, the Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
- Key times: The 9:00 pm “Calling Country” display will honour First Nations culture, followed by the main midnight event.
- Unity tribute: At 11:00 pm, the Harbour Bridge will light up white as a symbol of unity, with a one-minute silence to show solidarity with the Jewish community.
- Travel alert: The Sydney Harbour Bridge will close in both directions from 11:00 pm to 1:30 am.
Melbourne: CBD safety blitz
Melbourne is expecting 500,000 revellers for a massive rooftop display and laser show. The city has established four free “Celebration Zones” at Flagstaff Gardens, Treasury Gardens, Kings Domain, and Docklands to provide a safe, family-friendly environment. 👉 Read our full Melbourne New Year’s Eve guide here for road closures and family zones.+1
Brisbane: Riverside festivities and drone shows
Brisbane’s celebrations centre on the South Bank Parklands with spectacular “City of Dreams” shows over the Brisbane River.
- Showtimes: Fireworks are scheduled for 7:45 pm and midnight across four precincts.
- Drone displays: For the first time, two stunning drone shows featuring 200 drones will take place at 9:00 pm and 11:00 pm, visible from South Bank and Queen’s Wharf.
- Free travel: Public transport will be free from 8:00 pm on New Year’s Eve until 5:30 am on New Year’s Day.
Canberra: Lakeside hubs and free transport
Canberra is welcoming 2026 with festivities centred on Lake Burley Griffin, featuring four dedicated lakeside “celebration hubs”.
- Hub locations: Revellers can gather at Rond Terrace, Wendouree Drive, John Dunmore Lang Place (Commonwealth Place), and Ferry Gate (Regatta Point) from 6:00 pm.
- Note: There is no hub at Barrine Drive this year due to ongoing roadworks.
- Fireworks: Synchronised displays will launch from the Central Basin at 9:00 pm and midnight.
- Free travel: All Transport Canberra bus and light rail services are free all day on 31 December; passengers just tap on and off to register a zero-dollar fare.
Hobart: Waterfront yacht race vibes
Hobart’s celebrations are set against the backdrop of the iconic Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
- Sullivan’s Cove: Two fireworks displays, each lasting 8 minutes, will illuminate the Derwent River at 9:30 pm and midnight.
- Taste of Summer: The waterfront food festival is a major hub for food and live sounds.
- Travel: A free Park and Ride shuttle will operate from the Regatta Grounds to the city or waterfront.
Darwin: Tropical concerts and Liquid Light
The Darwin Waterfront will host a massive free family event headlined by Australian alternative rock band Eskimo Joe.
- Entertainment: Festivities open at 3:00 pm with entertainment from 5:00 pm.
- Fireworks: Displays are scheduled for 9:00 pm and midnight, accompanied by “Liquid Light” showcases.
- Safety: The Waterfront precinct is strictly an alcohol and smoke-free zone.
Adelaide: Free travel and riverbank fun
Adelaide revellers are urged to leave the car at home and take advantage of free public transport.
- Free transport: All Adelaide Metro bus, train, and tram services will be free from 5:00 pm on New Year’s Eve until 6:00 am on 1 January.
- Celebrations: Elder Park will host fireworks displays at 9:00 pm and midnight, with gates opening at 5:30 pm.
Perth: The final countdown
As the last major city to ring in the new year, Perth is hosting a double fireworks spectacular at Elizabeth Quay.
- Double display: A family-friendly show at 8:30 pm and the traditional midnight countdown.
- Public transport: Transperth will offer free travel from midnight until 6:00 am on 1 January 2026.
National travel tips for NYE 2026
- Plan ahead: Most CBDs will be “locked down” to traffic by late evening. Use public transport apps to track real-time delays.
- Pet safety: Authorities in Darwin and other cities recommend leaving pets at home due to fireworks noise.
- Alcohol-free zones: Most public vantage points are strictly alcohol-free. Check local council websites to avoid fines.
As the nation unites to celebrate the start of 2026, emergency services and local councils are urging all revellers to prioritise personal responsibility and community safety. Whether you are watching the fireworks from a crowded harbour foreshore or enjoying a quiet local celebration, planning your journey, looking out for your friends, and following the advice of transport authorities will ensure a memorable and safe start to the new year for all Australians.
