Weather in Australia

Due to the country’s vast size, the climate in Australia varies tremendously, although one thing is sure: expats living down under are unlikely to escape the heat.

The southern coast, which includes Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney, has the best climate by far. It has mild winters (June to August) between 41°F and 50°F (5°C and 10°C) and warm summers (December to February) between 77°F and 86°F (25°C and 30°C). Winters tend to be wet, although Australia has been known to experience severe droughts caused by insufficient rainfall.

The country’s interior, often referred to as ‘the Outback’, is dry and barren and experiences more extreme weather conditions than the coastal regions. In summer, daytime temperatures can soar to a scorching 104°F (40°C) only to drop at nighttime, sometimes to between 66°F and 32°F (19°C and 0°C). In winter, temperatures are mild, usually around 61°F and 75°F (16°C and 24°C).

Meanwhile, northern Australia has a tropical climate, with average temperatures in the dry season (May to October) of around 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Heavy rainfall and even cyclones are known to hit between December and March when the temperature rises. This is the hottest time of year in northern Australia, making for uncomfortably humid conditions.

When it comes to the weather in Australia, expats should respect the harsh and relentless sunshine. Avoid going outside during the hottest time of the day, especially in summer. When you do go outside, be sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.