Does It Snow In Australia?

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Australia’s Winter Tale: Does Snow Really Fall Down Under?

Yes! It does in fact snow in Australia and in some places there is quite a substantial amount!

Snow is not the first thing you imagine when you think of Australia but the truth is that there are some places where winter brings snowfall. Though the majority of Australia’s mainland experiences warm temperatures year-round, certain parts of the country can experience cold temperatures and occasional snowstorms.

When Is Winter In Australia?

In Australia, the winter season, as set by the meteorological calendar, begins on the 1st of June and ends on the 31st of August. Distinct from the northern hemisphere, where winter occurs in December through February, the chillier months in Australia happen in June, July, and August. This stems from Australia’s position in the southern hemisphere, resulting in reversed seasons compared to the northern hemisphere.

With winter’s onset, the temperatures cool, and in certain areas of Australia, snowfall occurs. While snow is not a common occurrence throughout Australia, it’s primarily confined to regions with higher elevations. For an in-depth understanding of Australian winter, refer to our comprehensive guide: When is Winter in Australia?

Does it snow in Australia?

What is Australia’s Average Climate?

Australia is typically known for hot and dry sun-filled days, but there is wide variance in the climate depending on location. The average temperature across the country ranges from 10-20 degrees Celsius (50-68 F) in winter and 22-32 degrees Celsius (72-90 F) in summer, with a majority of coastal regions experiencing mild winters. However, due to its large size, some parts of Australia experience colder temperatures and even snowfall during the winter months.

Is Snow Common in Australia?

Mt McKay at Falls Creek covered in snow with two women throwing snow in air.

Snow is not a common occurrence across all of Australia during the winter months. However, due to its large size, some parts of the country—especially those in higher elevations—experience snowfall from time to time. These regions include far inland and mountainous areas such as Tasmania, the Australian Alps, Mount Kosciuszko (the highest mountain peak in mainland Australia), and Victoria’s Alpine Region.

Where Does It Snow In Australia?

Built up of snow on lift tower at Falls Creek - Does it snow in Australia?
Mountain snow sunset at Falls Creek.

New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania are the states that receive substantial & regular snow during the winter months. The Adelaide Hills in South Australia occasionally get a light dusting of snow. Very rare weather events have brought snow to other parts of Australia. It snowed on the iconic Uluru in Central Australia in 1997 and snow has fallen just twice in Sydney since records began. Even tropical Queensland recorded snow in Mackay in 1965.

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Do Any Parts of Australia Receive Heavy Snowfall?

Does it snow in Australia? Cars at falls creek covered in snow winter 2022.
Build up off snow curling off roof at Falls Creek.

Yes, certain parts of Australia can receive heavy snowfall in winter. The Australian Alps region is the most likely desert continent place to experience sizeable snowfalls throughout the snowy season. This area receives a yearly average of between 70 and 150 inches of snow during winter, creating a stunning winter wonderland ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Snow also falls in other mountainous regions at elevations above 6,000 feet.

When Is The Shortest Day Of The Year In Australia?

The shortest day of the year in Australia, also known as the winter solstice, usually falls on June 21st or 22nd. On this day, the Earth’s axis is tilted the furthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. This date marks the official start of winter in astronomical terms, even though meteorological winter starts on June 1st. After the winter solstice, the days gradually start to get longer and the nights shorter, leading up to the summer solstice in December, which is the longest day of the year.

Can You Go Skiing In Australia?

Yes! Australia has 10 ski resorts across 3 states that offer skiing and snowboarding. The ski resorts are open from early June to early October each winter.

Nick Payne - Skier at Ruined Castle Terrain Park Falls Creek.

Best Australian Ski Resorts

While Australia may not be able to compete with Canada, Japan & Switzerland for snowfall and terrain there is still some excellent skiing to be had in Australia. A sunny day on the Aussie slopes is something all Australians and visitors should experience. While there are 10 resorts in total the top 5 have the biggest ski area and are the most popular places to visit.

Perisher

Perisher is a popular ski resort located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. It is the largest ski resort in the southern hemisphere and is known for its wide range of terrain, variety of runs, and modern facilities.

  • Location: NSW (6 hours from Sydney)
  • Elevation: 429 m (1605 m – 2034 m)
  • Skiable Terrain: 65km
  • Ski Lifts: 49

Thredbo

Thredbo is known for its steep runs and challenging terrain. The resort is located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales and offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing.

  • Location: NSW (6 hours from Sydney)
  • Elevation: 672 m (1365 m – 2037 m)
  • Skiable Terrain: 52km
  • Ski Lifts: 14
Falls Creek Village - View of the village at sunset
Falls Creek Village – View of the village at sunset

Falls Creek

Falls Creek is a winter wonderland, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Australia. The resort boasts over 450 hectares of skiable terrain, with 92 runs suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The slopes are serviced by 14 lifts, including 3 high-speed quad chairs, providing easy access to the top of the mountain.

  • Location: Victoria (5 hours from Melbourne)
  • Elevation: 280 m (1500 m – 1780 m)
  • Skiable Terrain: 49km
  • Ski Lifts: 16

Mt Buller

Mount Buller is a popular ski resort located in the Victorian Alps of Australia. It is situated approximately 3 hour’s drive from Melbourne, making it easily accessible for visitors from Victoria and beyond.

Mount Buller has a variety of ski runs to cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with over 85 runs spread across 300 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort has a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, as well as several terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. The runs are serviced by 21 lifts, including 3 express chairs and 13 surface lifts.

  • Location: Victoria (3 hours from Melbourne)
  • Elevation: 400 m (1380 m – 1780 m)
  • Skiable Terrain: 47.5km
  • Ski Lifts: 21

Mt Hotham

Mt Hotham is located in Victoria’s Alpine region and is known for its stunning views and challenging terrain. The resort has 72 runs spread across 245 hectares of skiable terrain.

  • Location: Victoria (5 hours from Melbourne)
  • Elevation: 395 m (1450 m – 1845 m)
  • Skiable Terrain: 30km
  • Ski Lifts: 13

Enjoy the Australian Snow!

Now that you know that it snows in Australia you will have to experience it for yourself. My favourite ski resort in Australia is Falls Creek.
Learn more and start planning your trip.

Falls Creek Visitor Guide