As well as ocean swims, barefoot barbies and Frosty Fruits, one of the best things about summer is daylight savings. (Before you come for us in the comments, yes, we know it’s technically ‘daylight saving’, but who really calls it that?) The good news is that longer days and more time for after-work fun are nearly here, as daylight savings is upon us. Here’s everything you need to know about daylight savings in NSW, including when to turn your clocks forward and what it will mean for your sleep pattern.
When does daylight savings start in NSW?
Every year, daylight savings kicks off on the first Sunday of October at 2am local time. In 2025, this falls on Sunday, October 5. So you'll get an extra hour of daylight on the evening of Sunday, October 5 (which is also NRL Grand Final night, incidentally).
Do we lose or gain an hour when daylight savings starts in NSW?
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you’ll lose one hour of sleep when our clocks spring forward on October 5, with 2am turning into 3am daylight saving time. Losing an hour of sleep sucks for a second, but we’d happily trade it in for an extra hour of evening sunlight any day of the week. Bring on the sunset picnics!
Do I turn the clock back or forward for daylight savings in NSW?
Your smartphone will surely do the job for you, but if you still use an old-school alarm or need to reset your grandfather clock, remember to move your analogue clocks and watches forward by one hour when you wake up on Sunday, October 5. Or: do it the night before so you’re not late for your Sunday morning coffee date.
Find it hard to remember which way the clocks go? Us too. A handy saying to keep in mind is: 'Spring forward, fall back' (with ‘fall back’ referring to when the clocks change again in autumn).
Which Australian states observe daylight savings?
Daylight savings is observed here in NSW, as well as in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Norfolk Island. However, Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands don’t change their clocks for daylight savings. Keep this in mind if you’re hopping between states or planning a Facetime with an interstate mate.
Why do we have daylight savings in NSW?
Daylight savings was first introduced in 1916 to save energy during World War I and II. By shifting the clock forward an hour, soldiers could take advantage of longer sunlight hours and increase productivity. While all Australian states and territories observed daylight savings during the wars, Tasmania made it a permanent fixture in 1968. New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and the ACT followed suit in 1971.
When does daylight savings end in NSW?
Daylight savings ends on Sunday, April 5, 2026, gifting you an extra hour of sleep as our clocks wind back one hour for the colder months.
What are the benefits of daylight savings in NSW?
So many. More hours of daylight mean there’s more time for play, sport, beach hangs, catch-ups with friends and outdoor activities after work. Hospo, retail and tourism businesses also get a much-needed boost after a cold winter, as people are inspired to get out and enjoy the balmy, golden weather. Plus, the extra Vitamin D, connection with mates and pretty sunsets give us all a big endorphin boost.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox.