As Ramadan approaches, one of the most common questions Muslims in Australia ask is when the blessed month will begin.

Knowing the expected start of Ramadan helps families, workplaces, schools, and communities plan ahead. It also allows people to prepare spiritually, adjust routines, and organise giving throughout the month.

This article explains when Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin in Australia, why dates can differ, and what to keep in mind as the month approaches.

When Is Ramadan 2026 Expected to Begin in Australia?

Allah (SWT) informs us in the Qur’an:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ

“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become mindful of Allah.” [Al Baqarah 183]

This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, or Wednesday, February 18, 2026, and end around Thursday, March 19, 2026 or Friday, March 20, 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon.

As with every year, the exact start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the new moon and decisions made in this regard by Imams councils such as the Australian National Imams Council. Because of this, the confirmed start date may vary slightly between countries and communities.

In Australia, official announcements are typically made closer to the date in Australia.

Why Does the Start Date of Ramadan Vary?

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Fast when you see it (the new moon), and break your fast when you see it. If it is obscured from you, then complete the month of Sha‘ban as thirty days.” [Agreed upon]

The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle. Each month begins with the sighting of the new moon, which means Ramadan does not start on a fixed date in the Gregorian calendar.

Different countries and communities may follow:

• Local moon sighting
• Global moon sighting
• Astronomical calculations

This can sometimes lead to differences of one day in the start of Ramadan between regions.

How Is Ramadan Confirmed in Australia?

In Australia, the start of Ramadan is usually confirmed by local Islamic authorities and bodies after considering moon sighting reports. Islamic Relief Australia appreciates the differences of opinion that exist in this regard. We take the announcements made by ANIC as our start and end of Ramadan dates.

Mosques and community organisations often announce the confirmed start date shortly before Ramadan begins. For this reason, many Muslims plan based on expected dates while remaining flexible in case of changes.

Preparing for Ramadan

While the exact date is confirmed closer to the time, there are many ways to prepare for Ramadan in advance.

This may include:

• Setting intentions for the month
• Planning work and family schedules
• Preparing for fasting
• Organising charitable giving through charities like Islamic Relief Australia.

Early preparation helps make Ramadan a more focused and meaningful experience.

Ramadan and Giving

Ramadan is a time when many Muslims increase their charitable giving.

Planning ahead can help ensure that obligations such as Zakat and Zakat al-Fitr are fulfilled correctly and on time, while also supporting those in need throughout the month.

Islamic Relief Australia supports a range of humanitarian programs locally and internationally, providing opportunities to give with purpose during Ramadan.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin in mid February, subject to moon sighting.

Staying informed and preparing early can help you enter the month with clarity and intention, making the most of this important time for reflection, worship, and generosity.