Planning for the construction industry Christmas shutdown period 2025

The end-of-year break is almost here! That means tools down, with most construction sites closing from Wednesday, 24 December 2025, through to Tuesday, 6 January 2026. These dates can vary a little depending on the business and project deadlines.

While we’re all looking forward to putting our feet up, a bit of planning now can save you from any unwanted surprises when you return in the New Year.

Here’s what to prepare for before the construction industry Christmas shutdown begins.

Public holidays over the ‘tools down’ period

A quick look at the major public holidays you’ll need to plan around in both Victoria and South Australia.

Note: Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are only part-day public holidays in South Australia, not in Victoria.

Some companies may add extra RDOs or adjust dates to suit projects, so always check your site’s specific calendar.

Before you clock off

Safely secure your site

An unsecured site over the holidays is an easy target for theft, vandalism, or even weather damage. A quick inspection now helps keep everything safe while you’re away.

Start with your perimeter. Walk the site and check that temporary fencing is intact and locks are heavy-duty and tamper-proof. Then test your security systems. Make sure cameras are recording, alarms are armed, and motion-sensor lights are working where they should.

Finally, secure or remove anything of value. Lock smaller tools and materials in site containers, and if it’s practical, move larger equipment off-site. Any access equipment you’ve hired from All Star will be secured until you’re back on the job.

Site safety and security checklist:

• Power isolated at the main switchboard and locked
• Perimeter fencing complete, with no gaps at ground level
• All entry points fitted with secure mechanical locks
• Incomplete structures (like roofing or walls) stabilised
• Open trenches and excavations filled or covered
• Platforms and scaffolding blocked to prevent access
• Site cleared of waste, debris, and surplus materials
• Boundary fencing reinforced against bad weather or tampering
• Clear signage displayed with emergency contact details

Get equipment serviced, tested, or booked in

The Christmas shutdown is the perfect window to get your gear taken care of. After a long year of heavy use, your machines could use a check-up. While everyone else is scrambling for appointments in January, you’ll be back on-site with freshly serviced, fully tested gear.

All Star’s essential scheduled maintenance service and 10-year testing help keep you compliant year-round. Schedule a check with All Star now to avoid the January rush and ensure your equipment is ready for the new year. 

Sort out equipment rentals

Take a strategic approach to your rental equipment during the construction industry shutdown. Review each piece of hired machinery and assess whether it’s more cost-effective to return it or retain it over the break. Consider factors like current rental rates, holiday period charges, and the equipment’s immediate necessity when work resumes.

Rental considerations:

• Current utilisation rates
• Holiday period charges
• January requirements
• Storage availability
• Transport logistics

To secure the equipment you need, please book your December and January rentals with All Star as soon as possible. Our Melbourne, Geelong, and Adelaide offices will be closed from 24 December 2025 to 6 January 2026. But don’t worry, all confirmed rentals will be ready for delivery when we return.

Need support over the break?

While most of the industry takes a breather over the construction Christmas shutdown, we’re still here to help. Our 24/7 breakdown service runs right through the festive season. Whether you need emergency repairs or replacements, just give us a call, and we’ll get you back up and running in no time.