As kids didn’t we all want to stay out on the streets every summer evening and wish that the day was a little bit longer? To have an extra hour to keep playing to our hearts content? Well some people’s wishes do come true. Australia is gifted an extra daylight hour, each day for 6 months, every year! Now you may call it a wish come true or in simpler terms; Daylight Saving in Australia.
What is Daylight Saving Time/ DST?
The practise of advancing clocks during the warmer months (usually by one hour) to have darkness fall later on the clock is known as Daylight Saving Time (DST). A renowned entomologist and astronomer named George Hudson initially suggested the concept of Daylight Saving in the year 1895 however, nations didn't start utilising it until 1916. DST is typically not practised in areas close to the equator since there aren't enough differences in dawn and sunset times to necessitate it. And as sunrise and sunset times observe great variations and a one-hour change would comparatively not make much of a difference, it is not seen in some locations at high latitudes too. Some nations only observe it in specific places; for instance, only some nations observe Daylight Saving in Australia, while others choose not to.
All about Australia Daylight Savings 2023
When does DST start in Australia?
In order to observe Australian time zone change, clocks are often moved forward by an hour in the spring season ("spring forward") and backward by an hour in the fall season ("fall back"). The first Sunday in October marks the start of Daylight Saving in Australia, when the clocks are advanced by one hour and thus extending the allure of an Australian Summer. It ends on the first Sunday in April, when the clocks are set one hour earlier, at 2am (which is 3am Daylight Saving Time). Daylight saving in Australia was first implemented during World War I, in 1916 to save energy. It was reinstated during WWII for the same reason and has hence continued for 61 years, from 1916 to 2022. (DST in a particular location).
Which Australian states observe DST?
In Australia, Daylight Saving Time is observed in New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory, and Norfolk Island. Queensland, the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Christmas Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands are the ones that do not follow this Australian clock change system. This has led to Australia having three main time zones during the winter months and five during summer.
How does DST affect your daily life?
We are mindful that "springing forward" every year isn't quite exactly fun. In spite of the fact that it only lasts one day, it disrupts your entire schedule, and the affects on your sleep usually last for a few days, right? Well then what’s there to like about the Australian clocks changing? Quite a few things, to our surprise.
1. There is more light to enjoy!
Sunlight increases serotonin levels, which enhances mood. So what could be better than just being able to soak in the daylight far into the late hours? That's what we thought! More light gives you more time to do what you want to do = a happier you.
2. Minimises the energy consumption level (and saves your money)
When there is more natural light, you use less artificial light, and that would make a huge difference on the overall cost of energy use.
3. Less crime rate during savings time.
According to research, robbery rates decrease by an average of 7% after the time change, falling by a much higher 27% during the newly created, light-filled nighttime hours. Totally blows my mind.
4. Increase in tourism
More daytime means more time to sit and chill at the beaches or spend an extra hour at the zoo! Who would want to miss that? People are just happy to be out and about in the city during the day. Wish to know where can you spend your one extra hour? Have a look at the 20 best tourist attractions in Sydney.
Daylight savings and your Health
We all know that not getting enough sleep is detrimental for your physical and mental health. Because your circadian rhythm is determined by the timing and amount of strong light exposure you receive during the day, DST between October and April exposes your body to less morning light and more evening light, which might disrupt your circadian cycle. By altering your circadian rhythm, you jeopardize your sleep health as well as a variety of bodily functions.
Australian time zone changing have a few short-term health consequences, such as sleep problems, exhaustion, and blood pressure abnormalities, the feeling of a prolonged jet lag. Teenagers, who tend to be night owls, and "late starts," or people who wake up later in the morning, are especially susceptible to these impacts because they already miss out on more hours of natural morning light. Studies also show that DST has also been associated to a higher chance of acquiring a variety of medical conditions, ranging from cardiac and digestive diseases such as slowed metabolism to problems with cognition and mental health such as depression. Additionally, DST can worsen these symptoms if you already have them. To further help tackle these problems you can check out 10 best stress management activities for students and implement them in your day-to-day routine.
How to prepare for daylight saving in Australia?
No matter the advantages, we can't lie: It will still be a blow to your daily routine. But before the big day, keep to these four strategies to make the time change easier:
1. Reset clocks the previous night.
Your phone, computer, and cable box will undoubtedly update itself automatically, but what about the microwave clock? Your table clock? Or perhaps the cuckoo clock hanging in your living room? By moving the clocks forward one hour in advance, you can prevent confusion (and, for that matter, annoyance).
2. Get those extra ZZZ(Z)s
The greatest way to get ready for the hour of lost sleep is to gradually approach it. Start several days before the time change, for example, by ensuring that you are in bed 15-30 minutes before your typical bedtime. It also helps to ensure that you are well rested the week prior.
3. Prep your house
Summer is almost around the corner, and so is daylight saving time. Unfortunately, that also means that you'll be turning on your air conditioner soon (assuming you haven't already). Consider following some energy-saving tips and tricks for your home, keeping in mind the true spirit of Daylight Saving Time.
4. Be Positive
People who were "surprised" by the time shift will inevitably exist, and they won't be pleased about it. Just remember the advantages of DST described above and resist their gloomy tendencies. Additionally, if you used the prior advice, you are well-prepared. Who knows? You might even come to the realisation that "springing forward" isn't something you dread after all.
Conclusion
This system of “Springing Forward” the hands of the clock is being practised in many parts of the world from almost a century now. Just like Australia, But there still seems to be a debate on if Daylight Saving Time should be followed in Australia or not. Whatever the final call be, let’s enjoy that one extra hour of sunlight and make the most out of it!
New to the concept of daylight savings? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! Check out our Daylight Saving in USA & Daylight Saving in UK blogs and get ready to reset your clocks!
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