Strategic leave: Turn 20 days into 53+ days of holidays in 2023
With some clever planning, Aussies can more than double their time off work next year, according to Finder.
Finder has taken a close look at the 2023 calendar to reveal how Australians can make the most of their annual leave.
By booking leave days strategically, Aussies can maximise their days off and get 53 days or more of holiday time in 2023.
Those living in the ACT, Victoria or Tasmania are the luckiest and can get the most days off next year (59).
This is followed by Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory with 56 days. Those living in Queensland can get 54 days, while those in New South Wales get the least (53 days).
Angus Kidman, Finder's editor-in-chief, said your best bet was to book leave as early as possible.
"As we enter the new year, plenty of workers are already thinking about holiday plans for 2023.
"These annual leave hacks work around public holidays which are peak travel seasons. That's why it's a good idea to submit your annual leave request as soon as you can – don't be the one who misses out.
"Also, book your trip as early as you can to secure your spot – as well as the best prices."
Finder data shows 55% of Australians are planning a holiday in the next 12 months. The majority (28%) plan to travel only within Australia.
While 14% plan to go internationally, a further 13% plan to holiday both within Australia and overseas in the coming year.
Kidman said Easter and Christmas were excellent opportunities to maximise time off.
"The 2 nationwide public holiday periods of Easter – where you're guaranteed a 4-day weekend – and Christmas – where you're guaranteed at least 2 annual leave days off – are great times to maximise your leave.
"You can enjoy a 16-day holiday in April by using 8 days of annual leave in the first 2 weeks.
"In 2023, Christmas and Boxing Day fall on Monday and Tuesday, so you're automatically guaranteed a 4-day weekend without cutting into any annual leave. You only need to take 3 days (Wednesday–Friday) to have a 10-day holiday," Kidman said.
| Are you planning a holiday in the next 12 months? | |
|---|---|
| Yes, within Australia | 28% |
| Yes, internationally | 14% |
| Yes, both within Australia and internationally | 13% |
| I'm not sure yet | 13% |
| I can't afford to go on a holiday | 13% |
| No | 19% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,086 respondents, December 2022 |
Here's how to make the most of your annual leave in 2023.