September marks the beginning of spring in southern Australia and the continuation of ideal dry-season weather in the tropical north. It’s one of the most balanced months of the year, with warming temperatures, longer daylight hours and fewer peak-season crowds than summer.
Southern cities like Sydney and Melbourne begin to warm into the mid-60s to low-70s°F (18–22°C), while northern Queensland remains sunny and dry around 79–84°F (26–29°C). Across much of the country, rainfall is moderate to low, making September one of the most comfortable months to explore Australia’s coastlines, deserts and cities.
Australia Weather in September (by Region)
Sydney Weather
Average high: 70°F (21°C)Average low: 54°F (12°C)
September in Sydney brings clear skies and rising spring temperatures. Coastal walks become more comfortable and outdoor dining returns in full swing. Whale migration season continues through the month, making ocean viewpoints especially rewarding.
Best for:
- Coastal cliff walks
- Harbour exploration
- Whale watching
Melbourne Weather
Average high: 64°F (18°C)Average low: 49°F (9°C)
Melbourne transitions into early spring in September. Days feel fresher and brighter, with blossoming parks and increasing outdoor activity. Rain remains possible, but sunshine hours increase noticeably.
Best for:
- Laneway cafés
- Gardens in bloom
- Great Ocean Road drives
Brisbane Weather
Average high: 74°F (23°C)Average low: 57°F (14°C)
September is one of Brisbane’s most pleasant months. Humidity remains low, rainfall is limited and temperatures are warm without feeling hot. Outdoor activities feel comfortable throughout the day.
Best for:
- South Bank parklands
- River cruises
- Coastal day trips
Cairns & Tropical North Queensland Weather
Average high: 84°F (29°C)Average low: 68°F (20°C)
September sits firmly within the dry season in northern Queensland. Rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower than summer and reef visibility is often strong. Water temperatures are warm and ideal for snorkeling.
Best for:
- Great Barrier Reef exploration
- Daintree Rainforest walks
- Island-hopping in the Whitsundays
Perth Weather
Average high: 68°F (20°C)Average low: 50°F (10°C)
Spring begins in Western Australia during September, bringing warmer days and the start of wildflower season. Coastal conditions improve and inland regions begin to bloom.
Best for:
- Wildflower viewing
- Coastal drives
- Swan Valley wine tasting
Australia Temperatures in September (Quick Overview)
- Southern cities: 64–70°F (18–21°C) by day
- Brisbane: around 74°F (23°C)
- Tropical north Queensland: 79–84°F (26–29°C)
- Evenings are cool in the south and mild in the north
September offers moderate temperatures across most regions, with fewer weather extremes than summer or winter.
Australia Events in September
September blends spring festivals with sporting and cultural highlights:
- AFL Grand Final (Melbourne) – Australia’s biggest Australian Rules Football event.
- Brisbane Festival (Brisbane) – Citywide arts celebration featuring live performances and riverfront events.
- Wildflower Season (Western Australia) – Peak viewing months begin across national parks and coastal reserves.
- Whale Watching Season (NSW & QLD) – Continues strongly through spring.
September often delivers strong cultural programming without the intense holiday crowds of December and January.
Best Places to Visit in Australia in September
September is one of the most versatile months for travel. The best places to visit in Australia in September include the Great Barrier Reef for peak dry-season clarity, Uluru for comfortable desert hiking temperatures, Sydney’s coastline for spring whale migration and Western Australia for wildflower blooms.
Great Barrier Reef & Cairns
Cairns is one of the best places to visit in Australia in September because dry-season conditions bring calm seas, warm water and strong underwater visibility. Reef trips operate reliably, humidity is manageable and rainfall is minimal. September offers near-ideal snorkeling and diving conditions before the summer heat returns.
Top experiences: reef platforms, snorkeling charters, scenic flights over coral formations.
Uluru & the Red Centre
Uluru is one of the best places to visit in Australia in September because daytime desert temperatures are warm but not extreme. Hiking conditions are far more comfortable than summer and clear skies enhance sunrise and sunset photography. Evenings remain cool but manageable.
Top experiences: Uluru base walk, Kata Tjuta hikes, stargazing tours.
Sydney Coastline
Sydney is one of the best places to visit in Australia in September because spring weather brings comfortable coastal temperatures and continued whale migration sightings. Cliff walks between Bondi and Coogee feel invigorating rather than hot and harbour conditions are calm and scenic.
Top experiences: whale watching cruises, harbour dining, coastal photography.
Western Australia Wildflower Regions
Western Australia is one of the best places to visit in Australia in September because wildflower season reaches its peak across many regions. National parks and coastal reserves showcase colorful native blooms under improving spring temperatures.
Top experiences: Kings Park gardens, national park wildflower drives, Swan Valley tastings.
Shore Excursions in Australia in September
September shore experiences should align with spring weather in the south and reliable dry-season clarity in the north.
- Cairns – Snorkeling the Great Barrier ReefDry-season reef conditions continue through September, offering strong visibility, warm water and comfortable humidity levels.
- Airlie Beach – Whitehaven Beach GetawaySpring warmth and calm seas make island visits and beach time especially appealing before the summer heat intensifies.
- Sydney – Manly Beach & Northern SuburbsSeptember’s mild spring air makes coastal exploration ideal, with continued whale migration enhancing ocean views.
- Perth Region – Swan Valley Wine ExperiencesSpring temperatures and blooming landscapes enhance vineyard visits and countryside drives.
FAQs: Australia in September
1. Is September a good time to visit Australia
Yes. September is one of the best months to visit Australia because it combines spring weather in the south with continued dry-season conditions in the tropical north. Temperatures are moderate, rainfall is limited in many regions and major attractions are less crowded than peak summer.
2. What is the weather like in Australia in September?
Australia weather in September varies by region. Southern cities experience mild spring temperatures between 64–70°F (18–21°C), while tropical north Queensland remains warm and dry around 79–84°F (26–29°C). Humidity is generally lower than summer across most regions.
3. What is the average temperature in Australia in September?
The average temperature in Australia in September ranges from the mid-60s°F (18°C) in Melbourne to the mid-80s°F (29°C) in Cairns. Sydney averages around 70°F (21°C), while Brisbane typically reaches 74°F (23°C).
4. Is September good for the Great Barrier Reef?
Yes. September is considered an excellent month for the Great Barrier Reef because it falls within the dry season in northern Queensland. Rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower and underwater visibility is often strong, making snorkeling and diving conditions reliable.
5. Can you see whales in Australia in September?
Yes. September remains within humpback whale migration season along Australia’s east coast. Whale sightings are common from coastal lookouts and boat tours near Sydney, Byron Bay and parts of Queensland.
6. Is September peak season in Australia?
September is generally shoulder season across much of Australia. While certain events and school holidays may increase local demand, it is typically less crowded than December and January. The Great Barrier Reef and major cities experience steady but manageable visitor levels.
