Australia holidays

Australia is a massive country and its hugely varied climate means there’s always a good time to be doing something, be it skiing, scuba diving, sightseeing or hiking.

When temperatures drop in southern areas, the north is pleasant and warm. Likewise, when the scorching desert heat is too much, you can usually head south for respite. Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on where you want to go and it’s best to compare seasons and their climates before deciding.

From Alice Springs northwards, including cities such as Broome, Cairns and Darwin, high season falls during the months of June to August. You’ll find comfortable travelling temperatures and some excellent hotel and flight prices during the shoulder months of March to May and September to November. In the tropics, the wet season between November and March often causes flooding, so bear that in mind too when you’re travelling.

Further south in Sydney, Perth or Melbourne, blistering summer temperatures usually occur between November and February. Prices tend to be highest during this time, so compare holiday prices with those in the shoulder months (September, October, March and April) and you might be able to bag a cheap package holiday to Australia.

Among the highlights of Australia’s events calendar is the Australia Day celebrations on January 26 when community festivities erupt across the country. New Year’s Eve is another exciting affair; you can be one of the first in the world to see in the new year with a fantastic fireworks display over Sydney Harbour.

Currency: Australian dollar (A$ or AUD)
Capital city: Canberra
Language: English
Key phrase to learn: How ya going? (How are you?)
Time difference: Australia has three to five time zones as some areas do not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). From April to October, Perth is 7 hours ahead of the UK, while Sydney is 9 hours ahead.
Average flight time: 22 hours
International phone code: +61
Emergency services number: 000
Public holidays: New Year’s Day (January 1), Australia Day (January 26), Good Friday (Friday before Easter Sunday), Easter Saturday (Saturday before Easter Sunday), Easter Sunday, Easter Monday (Monday after Easter Sunday), Anzac Day (April 25), Christmas Day (December 25), Boxing Day (December 26).

Note: The above are national public holidays; different states have their own public holidays.

Link to FCO travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia