Source : Perth Now news
Australians in parts of the country are set to wind back their clocks this Sunday, as daylight saving comes to an end.
For residents in NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, the ACT, and Norfolk Island, this means an extra hour of sleep — but darker evenings will soon become the norm.
At 3am on Sunday, clocks will turn back one hour to 2am.
While smartphones and most digital devices update automatically, traditional clocks, watches, and some appliances will need to be adjusted manually.
Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands do not observe daylight saving, so their time will remain unchanged.
The change affects more than just sleep. Shorter evenings can influence the night-time economy, commuting and social activity.
Data from NSW shows night-time spending at restaurants, bars and retail venues drops by almost 13 per cent during the first week after clocks revert, with public transport trips falling by almost 15 per cent.
Community mobility also decreases, and earlier sunsets can raise safety concerns for those walking after dark.
The Fair Work Ombudsman also reminds overnight workers that pay is generally based “by the clock,” meaning a nine-hour shift due to the change would be paid as eight hours unless otherwise specified.
But there are also bright spots. Early risers can enjoy longer mornings with natural sunlight, perfect for outdoor exercise.
Experts note that when clocks fall back, people may find it easier to shift to earlier sleep schedules and establish healthier evening routines, as darkness arrives sooner.
This can help some households wind down more naturally at night.
Health authorities warn the clock change can initially disrupt sleep patterns and biological rhythms, but offer practical tips to ease the transition.
Gradually adjusting bedtimes in the days leading up to the change, getting morning sunlight, and preparing household schedules can improve energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Daylight saving has a long and often contentious history in Australia.
First introduced during World War I to save fuel, it became permanent in Tasmania in 1967 and was later adopted by other states.
Queensland and Western Australia have repeatedly rejected the practice in referendums, citing disruption to early-morning routines, farming and regional lifestyles.
For now, Australians in participating states will adjust to earlier sunrises and darker evenings, with daylight saving set to return on Sunday, October 4.
