Daylight savings commences 3 weeks earlier this year at the beginning of October, rather than at the end. This is a departure from the 37 year history of permanent daylight savings in NSW. Prior to this, NSW observed DST only during the wars. A referendum to permanently reinstate DST was held in 1971 and was won in the favour of 13:6. 

For the first time, all states will be moving into DST together. Traditionally, Tasmania would be on DST 3 weeks before Victoria and NSW. 

The primary aim of DST is to reduce electricity usage by increasing the amount of daylight hours. This premise was based on the use of the light bulb. However, it is now found that electricity usage increases because the extra hours means people use extra electricity for cooling purposes, especially towards the afternoon/night. 

NT has not had DST since 1944.

Qld voted against DST in 1992.

WA is currently in the third year of a three year trial testing DST. A referendum will be held in 2009 to decide whether it should become permanent.

Hong Kong abandoned DST in 1980. 

Japan abandoned the US imposed DST in 1952.

Taiwan abandoned DST in 1976.

China abandoned DST in 1992.

Europe (excl. Iceland) observes DST from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

North America observes DST from the second Sunday in March to the last Sunday in November.