Victoria’s biggest union has welcomed the State Government’s decision to make Christmas Day a public holiday.

Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) Victorian Secretary Michael Donovan said:

“We are delighted that the State Government has announced that Christmas Day (25 December) will be a public holiday this year.

“This means that all workers will be entitled to a public holiday on Christmas Day or if they work, they will receive public holiday penalty rates.”

Mr Donovan said the SDA had been at the forefront of the fight to make Christmas Day a public holiday.

“Our members have campaigned very hard to make the Government change its mind. “There has also been an enormous groundswell of support by the public on this issue. “Congratulations to the Premier and the Government for reconsidering the issue and doing the right thing by weekend workers.”

The Government decision brings Victoria into line with every other State and Territory of Australia.

It means Sunday 25 December, Monday 26 December and Tuesday 27 December will all be public holidays this year.