We are all in need of a long
weekend to enjoy what remains of the summer months, to relax, spend time with
family or arranging a pre-Easter getaway but how did the long weekend or Labour
Day come about?
The history of labour day spans
over a century, being an important annual event that remembers those that
struggled and succeeded to ensure decent and fair working conditions in
Australia. During the mid to late 1800’s the working day was long and arduous with
some employees working up to 12 hours a day, six days a week.
Many Australians saw the need for
better working conditions. Did you know on 21st April 1856
stonemasons marched to Parliament house in Melbourne to push for an eight hour
working day. After much negotiation an agreement was reached for a 48 hour
working week with Australians welcoming the new 8 hour day. It is not
surprising there was a victory march a few weeks later and subsequent years.
Labour Day was moved in some parts of Australia from May to the second Monday
in March after World War II.
We are all in need of some
respite and family time this coming weekend, but take time to think of those who fought hard for a shorter working
day for us all so that we can spend more time with our loved ones.
