Australia is often associated with sunny beaches, a warm climate, and the iconic Outback. However, the country offers diverse climates and landscapes, including surprisingly cold places. This guide explores the top cold places in Australia, perfect for a winter getaway or for anyone who loves the chill.
Some might think that the best suburbs to live in Australia are by the coast, and they’re not wrong. But for those who want to be a little more remote and have quick access to the slopes in the winter, the Snowy Mountains in NSW or Mount Hotham in VIC could be ideal.
What Are the Top Cold Places in Australia?
New South Wales
1. Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Median house price: $671,000
The Snowy Mountains are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, thanks to their snow-capped peaks and ski resort towns. Located in New South Wales, the range features Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, which often sees significant snowfall in the colder months.
- Popular ski resort towns
- Activities: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing
- Stunning alpine scenery
2. Barrington Tops, New South Wales
Located in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Barrington Tops is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park. Known for its subalpine climate, the park experiences cold winters, with snowfall occurring at higher elevations. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
3. Lithgow, New South Wales
Median house price: $496,000
Lithgow, situated on the western edge of the Blue Mountains, is a regional town with a rich industrial history. The area experiences cold winters with snowfall, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby snow-capped peaks and enjoying winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
4. Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Median house price: $899,000
The Blue Mountains, a beautiful mountainous region in New South Wales, experiences cold weather and occasional snowfall during winter months. Visitors can enjoy scenic attractions such as the Three Sisters and Wentworth Falls.
Compared to the $8 million median house price in the most expensive suburb in Australia, living in the Blue Mountains means you get a 3-bedroom house for under $800,000!
5. Charlotte Pass, New South Wales
Charlotte Pass is Australia’s coldest place, with winter temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Situated in the Snowy Mountains, the area offers pristine snow conditions and a variety of winter sports.
Tasmania
Tasmania, an island state located south of mainland Australia, is known for its cool climate and picturesque landscapes. The region experiences some of the country’s coldest temperatures, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a winter wonderland.
The main places are the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and Mount Wellington in Hobart.
6. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
- Snow-capped mountains
- Winter temperatures and snowfall
- Hiking and wildlife spotting
7. Mount Wellington, Hobart
- Average minimum temperatures in winter
- Snow falling in colder months
- Views of Hobart and surrounding areas
8. Stanley
Median house price: $532,500
Stanley, a picturesque coastal town in Tasmania, is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm. The town experiences a cool maritime climate, with cold winters and occasional snowfall on the surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy the town’s heritage buildings, local cuisine, and wildlife spotting.
Victoria
Victoria, located in the southeast of Australia, is home to several ski resorts and alpine villages. The state experiences colder weather and snowfall during winter, making it an ideal location for winter sports and outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for the best places to invest in Australia, you can consider investing in a ski resort home in Victoria that you lease out during the ski season.
9. Mount Hotham
- Known as the ‘powder capital’ of Australia
- Ski resort town: Dinner Plain
- Winter activities: skiing, snowboarding, snow play
10. Mount Buller
- Popular ski resort
- Accessible from Melbourne
- Snow sports and Alpine village
11. Ballarat
Median house price: $607,500
Ballarat, a regional city in Victoria, is known for its gold rush history, stunning architecture, and cold winters. The city experiences low temperatures and occasional snowfall, making it a popular destination for those seeking a winter experience close to Melbourne.
12. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Canberra, Australia’s capital city, experiences cold winters with frosty mornings and occasional snowfall. The city’s location at a higher elevation contributes to its colder climate. Visitors can explore the city’s cultural institutions, national parks, and nearby snow-capped mountains like the Brindabella Ranges.
The Coldest City Debate
Comparison Table: Cold Places in Australia
| Location | Median House Price | Average Winter Temp (°C) | Popular Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snowy Mountains, NSW | $671,000 | 2°C – 6°C | Skiing, Snowboarding, Hiking |
| Mount Hotham, VIC | $870,000 | -1°C – 5°C | Skiing, Snow Play |
| Ballarat, VIC | $607,500 | 3°C – 10°C | Historic Tours, Snowfall |
| Blue Mountains, NSW | $899,000 | 5°C – 10°C | Bushwalking, Sightseeing |
| Lithgow, NSW | $496,000 | 4°C – 9°C | Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking |
| Mount Wellington, TAS | $480,000 | 2°C – 7°C | Scenic Views, Wildlife Watching |
When it comes to the title of the coldest city in Australia, the competition often falls between two contenders: Canberra and Hobart.
Hobart weather, with its southern position, often records low temperatures, especially during winter.
In contrast, Canberra weather, influenced by its elevation, sees frosty mornings and cold nights, making it a frequent mention when discussing the coldest spots. For up-to-the-minute updates, one might check “weather Canberra” or “Hobart weather” forecasts.
FAQs on the Cold Places in Australia
Where is the coldest place in Western Australia?
Bluff Knoll, in the Stirling Ranges, is the coldest spot in Western Australia. It often experiences snowfalls during winter.
Which city in Australia is the coldest during summer?
Tasmanian cities like Burnie, Wynyard, and Devonport are the coolest in summer. Average daytime temperatures in the hottest month reach only around 21°C.
What is the coldest area to live in, in Australia?
Liawenee, Tasmania, is the coldest permanently inhabited place in Australia. Even in summer, temperatures remain cool.
What is the warmest region in Australia during winter?
Northern regions, like Darwin in the Northern Territory, stay warm during winter. Average temperatures often exceed 30°C.
Where can snow be found in Australia?
Snow falls in the Australian Alps, including the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps. Tasmania’s central highlands also receive snow.
In Australia, does it snow only in the mountains?
Yes, snowfall in Australia is mostly confined to mountainous regions. Lowland areas rarely experience snow.
Is there any snow in Australia in the winter time?
Yes, during winter, snow falls in Australia’s alpine regions, supporting a ski industry.
Which place is the coldest state in Australia?
Tasmania is Australia’s coldest state, with cooler temperatures year-round.
Is the climate in Australia cold? Is there winter there?
Australia’s climate varies. Northern areas are tropical, while southern regions experience cooler winters. Yes, Australia has a winter season, typically from June to August.
