October is full spring across southern Australia and the final stretch of dry season in the tropical north. It’s one of the most comfortable and photogenic months of the year, with warming temperatures, longer daylight hours and landscapes in bloom.
Southern cities like Sydney and Melbourne average 70–75°F (21–24°C) during the day, while tropical destinations such as Cairns remain warm and dry around 84–88°F (29–31°C). Rainfall is still relatively low across most of the country and humidity has not yet reached summer levels in the north.
For many travelers, Australia in October offers the ideal balance: warm coastal days, comfortable desert exploration and reliable reef conditions before the summer wet season begins.
Australia Weather in October (by Region)
Sydney Weather
Average high: 73°F (23°C)Average low: 59°F (15°C)
October in Sydney feels bright and energetic. Spring sunshine dominates, jacaranda trees begin blooming and ocean temperatures slowly rise. It’s warm enough for beach time on sunny days without the intensity of peak summer heat.
Best for:
- Coastal walks
- Harbour cruises
- Outdoor dining
Melbourne Weather
Average high: 70°F (21°C)Average low: 52°F (11°C)
Melbourne settles into true spring in October. Parks bloom, outdoor events increase and café culture spills onto sidewalks. Rain showers remain possible but are typically brief.
Best for:
- Botanical gardens
- Great Ocean Road drives
- Spring racing season atmosphere
Brisbane Weather
Average high: 79°F (26°C)Average low: 61°F (16°C)
October in Brisbane is warm, dry and increasingly sunny. Humidity begins to rise slightly but remains comfortable compared to summer months. Beach days become more common along the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
Best for:
- Coastal day trips
- Riverfront exploration
- Wildlife parks
Cairns & Tropical North Queensland Weather
Average high: 88°F (31°C)Average low: 71°F (22°C)
October marks the tail end of the dry season in Cairns. Conditions are generally warm and sunny, though humidity begins to build toward late spring. Reef visibility remains strong and rainfall is still relatively limited compared to the upcoming wet season.
Best for:
- Great Barrier Reef snorkeling
- Island hopping
- Rainforest exploration
Perth Weather
Average high: 73°F (23°C)Average low: 55°F (13°C)
Spring blooms continue across Western Australia in October. Wildflower displays remain visible in many regions and coastal conditions become increasingly warm and inviting.
Best for:
- Wildflower trails
- Swan Valley wine tasting
- Coastal road trips
Australia Temperatures in October (Quick Overview)
- Southern cities: 70–75°F (21–24°C) by day
- Brisbane: around 79°F (26°C)
- Tropical north Queensland: 84–88°F (29–31°C)
- Evenings are mild in the south and warm in the north
October delivers moderate warmth across most regions without extreme heat.
Australia Events in October
October blends spring festivals with major sporting and cultural programming:
- Melbourne Cup Carnival preparations begin (Melbourne) – Racing season builds toward November’s major event.
- Sydney Running Festival (Sydney) – Major city marathon across the Harbour Bridge.
- Wildflower Season (Western Australia) – Continues strongly in many regions.
- Brisbane Good Food & Wine Show (Brisbane) – Culinary celebration of Queensland produce.
October is often event-rich without peak summer pricing.
Best Places to Visit in Australia in October
October is one of the most flexible travel months of the year. The best places to visit in Australia in October include the Great Barrier Reef before wet season humidity builds, Uluru for warm desert hiking conditions, Sydney for spring coastal energy and Western Australia for lingering wildflower displays.
Great Barrier Reef & Cairns
Cairns is one of the best places to visit in Australia in October because it sits at the end of the dry season, offering warm water, strong reef visibility and generally stable weather patterns. While humidity begins to rise slightly toward late October, rainfall is typically far lower than during the summer wet season. For travelers seeking reef-focused itineraries, October provides strong conditions without peak-summer crowds.
Top experiences: snorkeling charters, outer reef platforms, scenic reef flights.
Uluru & the Red Centre
Uluru is one of the best places to visit in Australia in October because desert temperatures are warm but not yet extreme. Hiking conditions remain manageable during morning and late afternoon hours and sunset photography benefits from clear skies. Unlike summer, daytime heat has not yet reached its peak intensity.
Top experiences: Uluru base walk, Kata Tjuta Valley of the Winds, guided cultural tours.
Sydney & Coastal New South Wales
Sydney is one of the best places to visit in Australia in October because spring weather makes coastal exploration especially comfortable. Temperatures are warm enough for beach time, jacaranda trees add vibrant purple color to city streets and outdoor dining thrives before peak summer tourism begins.
Top experiences: Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, harbour cruises, Blue Mountains day trips.
Western Australia Wildflower Regions
Western Australia is one of the best places to visit in Australia in October because wildflower season remains visible across many coastal and inland regions. Spring warmth enhances scenic drives and national park visits before summer heat intensifies.
Top experiences: Kings Park gardens, coastal wildflower routes, Swan Valley tastings.
Shore Excursions in Australia in October
In October, the best shore excursions take advantage of warm spring weather in the south and reliable late dry-season conditions in the north.
- Cairns – Snorkeling the Great Barrier ReefLate dry-season conditions provide warm water, good visibility and relatively stable weather for reef exploration.
- Airlie Beach – Whitehaven Beach GetawaySpring warmth and clear skies make Whitehaven Beach’s silica sands and turquoise waters especially photogenic.
- Sydney – Manly Beach & Northern SuburbsOctober’s mild spring temperatures are ideal for coastal sightseeing and relaxed waterfront exploration.
- Perth Region – Swan Valley Wine ExperiencesSpring bloom and warming days enhance vineyard visits and countryside drives.
FAQs: Australia in October
1. Is October a good time to visit Australia?
Yes. October is considered one of the best shoulder-season months to visit Australia. Southern regions experience mild spring weather, while northern Queensland remains in dry-season conditions. Temperatures are warm without peak summer extremes.
2. What is the weather like in Australia in October?
Australia weather in October varies by region. Southern cities average 70–75°F (21–24°C), Brisbane sits around 79°F (26°C) and Cairns reaches 84–88°F (29–31°C). Rainfall is generally moderate to low across most regions.
3. What is the average temperature in Australia in October?
The average temperature in Australia in October ranges from around 70°F (21°C) in Melbourne to the upper 80s°F (31°C) in Cairns. Sydney averages 73°F (23°C) during the day, while Brisbane reaches approximately 79°F (26°C).
4. Is October good for the Great Barrier Reef?
Yes. October is still within the dry season in northern Queensland. Rainfall is typically limited and reef visibility remains strong, making snorkeling and diving conditions reliable before the summer wet season begins.
5. Is October beach weather in Australia?
In many regions, yes. Sydney and Brisbane often experience warm spring days suitable for beach visits, while northern Queensland offers warm water temperatures. Southern beaches may still feel cool for extended swimming.
6. Is October peak season in Australia?
October is generally shoulder season across most of Australia. It offers favorable weather with fewer crowds than December and January, though specific events may increase demand locally.
