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August is Spring time in Australia and temperatures vary greatly from the north to the south of the country. Sydney is on the south-east coast and will be warm and mild at that time so cool clothing with light jackets for the evening clothing is advised. If you're planning to visit other cities across our wonderful country, make sure you're prepared for the varying climates.
New South Wales
New South Wales ranges widely in its temperature range. In summer the north coast can experience tropical conditions (very hot and sticky) and the inland can experience temperatures, which commonly exceed 40°C (100°F). In winter the north coast can remain mild and warm while the area around the Snowy Mountains and through the New England ranges can commonly experience snow and sub-zero frosty temperatures.
There are huge variations throughout the state. The things to keep in mind when packing are:
- The coast is subject to heavy rains during the summer months. The idea that New South Wales enjoys long hot summers is not entirely true. The days are hot but they can also be rainy and, particularly around Sydney, there is a phenomenon known as the Southerly buster, which sees the temperature drop dramatically as a cold front rushes up the coast.
- In summer sunny days have a very high UV factor and are capable of seriously burning the skin.
- Summer along the NSW coast north of Newcastle is characterised by high humidity.
- Inland NSW experiences continentality - i.e. hot, dry days and nights when the temperature can drop below zero. It is rare in summer for the nighttime temperatures to drop dramatically.
- There are areas of NSW where the temperature can be extremely cold.
People dress, informally, though smart casual wear is often required after dark at theatres and the more sophisticated hotels and restaurants. Beachwear is acceptable only on the beach and in pubs and fast food outlets; casual clothing is customary in most places.
For summer months (October to April) pack lightweight garments and a hat. The coast commonly experiences summer rains. Bring an umbrella. In winter, usually a lightweight overcoat and woollen garments are required. Remember warmer clothes are required if going inland.
Queensland
Queensland enjoys long hot summers and generally mild winters. There are huge variations throughout the state. The things to keep in mind when packing are:
- The coast is subject to heavy rains during the summer months.
- In summer sunny days have a very high UV factor and are capable of seriously burning the skin.
- Summer along the Queensland coast is characterised by very high humidity.
- Inland Queensland experiences continentality - i.e. very hot, dry days and nights when the temperature can drop below zero.
- Although a predominantly tropical state there are areas of Queensland (particularly around Stanthorpe) where the temperature can be extremely cold.
People dress, informally, though smart casual wear is often required after dark at theatres and the more sophisticated hotels and restaurants. Beachwear is acceptable only on the beach and in pubs and fast food outlets; casual clothing is customary in most places.
For summer months (October to April) pack lightweight garments and a hat. The entire Queensland coast commonly experiences summer rains. Bring an umbrella. In winter, usually a lightweight overcoat and woollen garments are required. Remember warmer clothes are required if going inland.
Victoria
Victoria enjoys a cooler climate than either NSW or Queensland although it is true that the summer months can be very hot and the winters are generally mild. The critical difference can probably be summed up by the joke that Melbourne can experience four seasons in one day.
It is also important to remember that Melbourne is quite cold in winter. The things to keep in mind when packing are:
- The summer months can see a mixture of very warm and quite cold weather.
- In summer sunny days have a very high UV factor and are capable of seriously burning the skin.
- In winter, pack for winter. It is necessary to have warm clothing and raincoats and umbrellas.
Historically Melbourne is seen as being a more formal city than Sydney or Brisbane but this has changed in recent times. Often the weather will determine what people wear. It is true that people dress informally, though smart casual wear is often required after dark at theatres and the more sophisticated hotels and restaurants.
For summer months (October to April) pack lightweight garments and a hat but be prepared for the weather get become both wet and cold.
For localised weather information, check out:
Australian Bureau of Meteorology - www.bom.gov.au
