Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared next Thursday, September 22, a national day of mourning to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

This means it’s a public holiday nationwide.

Queen Elizabeth takes a tram to Government House in October 2011. .Credit:Angela Wylie

What does it mean for Victorians?

There are no official protocols that need to be observed during the mourning period. The day of mourning will be like any other Victorian public holiday.

A statement from the Premier’s office says the day will be a normal trading day, consistent with the Friday before the grand final, Boxing Day and many other public holidays.

Any businesses that want to remain open will need to pay penalty rates to their workers and appointment-based businesses will need to decide whether to cancel bookings.

The prime minister will meet state leaders on Wednesday to discuss plans and details surrounding the day.

What about schools and hospitals?

Schools are expected to remain open “subject to arrangements in each state and territory regarding the national public holiday” and Albanese said he expected hospitals to remain unaffected and elective surgeries to go ahead as planned.

Is this a new permanent public holiday or just a one-off?

This is a one-and-done type deal, so enjoy it this year because you won’t be getting it again.

What about the AFL grand final public holiday?

The AFL grand final public holiday scheduled for the day after, September 23, will still go ahead as planned, meaning Victorians will get a long weekend to match the Easter break.

What happens with major events or sporting events organised for the day?

All pre-planned events are to go ahead as scheduled.

Flinders Street Station in Melbourne is lit in regal purple in honour of the Queen on September 9.Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui

Will there be commemoration ceremonies in Melbourne?

Nothing has been announced yet, but there will likely be local ceremonies to coincide with official commemorations in Canberra.

Flags will continue to be flown at half-mast and there will be a minute’s silence at 11am to mark the Queen’s death.

Condolence books are available at Government House, where floral tributes can also be left.

Individual institutions will decide whether to ring bells as a mark of respect.

Will we still mark the Queen’s Birthday public holiday?

The premier’s office has announced that the public holiday that falls every year on the second Monday of June will remain the same, except by name. It will now be known as the King’s Birthday public holiday.

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