Brisbane:  Sub tropical paradise

Brisbane is located in the southern hemisphere and therefore Spring begins in September, Summer begins in December, Autumn in March, and Winter in June.  

Summer

Brisbane's hot months are November, December, January, February, and March, with high temperatures and humidity. During the height of summer temperatures can reach as high as 35C (95F) due to Brisbane's tropical climate. Pack plenty of shorts and short sleeved shirts as combined with the accompanying humidity things can get a little sweaty.

Visitors from colder places should remember to pack sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat as Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world and it is very easy to get sunburned, even in winter! Many northern visitors have arrived and gotten sun stroke on their first day and then had to spend most of their holiday inside recuperating. During hot weather, drink plenty of fluids and stay indoors or in the shade.

Winter 

Fast forward to the winter things cool down quite a bit.  You can still wear shorts during the day, but long pants are recommended for the nights, whilst a jacket or cardigan is also a good idea. As Brisbane has a tropical climate visitors from the northern hemisphere may find it better to come during the autumn or winter months when the weather is usually fine and the temperatures are usually around 25C (77F) (apart from a few weeks in the dead of winter).

Winter in Brisbane is the dry season, with August and September averaging the most sunny days than any other month. This is definitely the time to go, as Brisbane also celebrates its river culture in the annual Riverfestival around this time. This also means you will avoid the major school holidays and the accompanying crowds which are from late November to January.  Remember to bring a jacket though as due to the fine dry weather it cools down at night to about 3-8C (37-46F).

June to November is roughly the time when whales migrate up and down the coast for breeding, with September often being the best month for tours. September and October are also good months to catch the beautiful Jacaranda trees in flower. With its stunning purple flowers that carpet Brisbane streets and parks, it really is a sight to see. 

Climate Statistics 

The Bureau of Meteorology provides data on climate and rainfall averages on their website. Click here for the Brisbane climate information.