Bushfires & Climate Zones
Bushfires are a natural part of the Australian ecosystem — eucalyptus trees need fire to release their seeds. However, the combination of climate change, drought, and wind has made the fires more intense and dangerous in recent decades.
The devastating "Black Summer" bushfire season of 2019/20 burned over 18 million hectares, killed 33 people, and an estimated 3 billion animals. The smoke was visible from New Zealand to South America. It was a national tragedy that has permanently altered Australia's relationship with climate change.
For Travelers
- Bushfire season: October–February (East/South), September–December (North). Risk varies greatly each year.
- Stay informed: The "Fires Near Me" app (NSW), VicEmergency (Victoria), and respective state apps show current fires in real-time.
- Total Fire Ban Days: On these days, ANY open fire is prohibited — including BBQs and camping stoves. Heavy fines!
Australia's Climate Zones
Australia has five climate zones — from tropical in the north to temperate in the south:
- Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): Hot and humid year-round. Wet Season (Nov–Apr) with monsoons and cyclones, Dry Season (May–Oct) pleasant.
- Subtropical (Brisbane, Gold Coast): Warm, humid summers, mild winters. Suitable for travel year-round.
- Arid/Desert (Outback, Uluru): Extreme temperatures — 45°C+ in summer, frost in winter. Little rain.
- Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne): Four seasons, mild winters (rarely below 5°C), warm summers.
- Cool-temperate (Tasmania, Alpine region): Cool summers, cold winters with snow in the mountains.