Bookmark and Share

New South Wales Travel Guide

New South Wales — Weather

New South Wales’ climate differs according to the region. The state is extremely large, with a diverse list of landscapes and regions that help shape the climate. The Snowy Mountains region is aptly named for its vast snow cover during the winter months (June through to August). Therefore, the region experiences cold winters that regularly see subzero averages. The summer months remain cooler than other parts of the state, even though the mercury can hit above 70˚F (21˚C).

The outback region, which constitutes much of the state, is an arid or semi-arid climate. Temperatures during the summer months (December to February) can reach well above 104˚F (40˚C) in this region. However, winters rarely reach above 59˚F (15˚C). In the outback though, the climate remains relatively dry throughout the year.

There is less of a temperature variation between seasons along the eastern coast. A temperate climate is mostly experienced here, with averages hitting in the low to mid-70s for the year. Nevertheless, the northern coastline witnesses a hotter climate than the southern coastline, sometimes three or four degrees Fahrenheit different.

Rainfall tends to range from almost nothing in the western part of New South Wales, to more than 80 inches a year in the northeast. The eastern coastline experiences more rainfall than the west, largely due to the warmer air moving from the Tasman Sea, and the orographic effect of the Great Dividing Range.

Best Time to Visit New South Wales

The best time to visit New South Wales depends on the traveler’s interests and desires. The Snowy Mountains boasts some of the best ski fields in Australia, which are usually covered with snow between the months of July and September. Of course, some years see lower snow levels than others, not to mention shorter ski seasons. Nevertheless, ski enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook this option.

Peak season throughout New South Wales’ eastern coast and Sydney is certainly around Christmas and into January. The coast of New South Wales is sprinkled with hundreds of glorious beaches, making it easy to find a spot for surfing, swimming or sun baking. Hotels and apartments along coastal towns are usually more expensive and hard to find during the summer months. However, after April, accommodations become less expensive and more abundant.

Featured Tours to New South Wales