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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 20 June 2026 by the PressHive weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
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Australia’s weather spans tropical heat in the north, dry desert interior and cool, wet winters in the south. The live forecast above gives a snapshot for the major cities, but conditions shift hugely by region and season.
What drives Australia’s climate zones?
The continent covers tropical, subtropical, arid and temperate bands. Northern cities such as Darwin and Cairns have wet and dry seasons, with summer rain and winter warmth. Southern capitals – Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide – experience Mediterranean-like patterns: mild, wet winters and hot, often dry summers. Inland areas, including Alice Springs, see extreme temperature swings between day and night. For a year‑round picture, our 10‑day forecast covers current trends, while the australia weather year round data shows that winter (June–August) is dry in the north but cool and rainy in the south.
When is the best time to visit?
It depends on where you go. For australia weather sydney and Melbourne, the shoulder months of March–May and September–November offer mild temperatures and lower rainfall. The tropical north is best visited in the dry season (May–October). December and January bring summer heat across the south, with temperatures often above 30°C, and are peak holiday season. For those checking australia weather december or australia weather november, the north is still wet until around April, while the south warms up rapidly. The UK weather hub allows comparison with conditions back home.
Does it snow in Australia?
Yes – the Australian Alps, in New South Wales and Victoria, receive regular winter snow. Ski resorts such as Thredbo and Perisher operate June–October. Snow rarely falls in coastal cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
What is the weather like in Australia in winter?
Winter (June–August) is mild and wet in the south (Sydney 8–17°C, Melbourne 6–15°C), but warm and dry in the tropical north (Darwin 19–30°C). The interior can be chilly overnight, dropping below 5°C.
How hot does summer get in Australia?
Summer (December–February) brings heatwaves: Sydney often reaches 26–30°C, Melbourne 25–33°C, and inland areas like Alice Springs can top 40°C. Coastal humidity in the north can make conditions feel even hotter.