Ultimate Guide to March in Australia: Weather Insights, Packing Tips, and Must-See Attractions

Due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, March in Australia means the arrival of fall, making it one of the best times to visit this island continent. The extreme temperatures of the summer and winter months give way to pleasant, warm days and nights. Since most kids in Australia are still in school this time of year, you will likely avoid the high prices and large crowds typically found during the busy tourist seasons.

Australian Weather in March

The weather in Australia in March largely depends on where you plan to travel. Generally, the intense summer heat begins to fade during the first few weeks of the month as fall weather settles in.

This agreeable weather is common in states such as New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and southern Western Australia. Here, temperatures typically range from a low of 53°F in Hobart, Tasmania, to a high of 82°F in Albury, New South Wales. However, in tropical areas such as Northern Queensland, warm weather prevails, with average highs in the lower 80s and lows in the upper 60s Fahrenheit. It is essential to note that this region faces the possibility of cyclones during the Wet Season, particularly in cities like Cairns, which receive over 14 inches of rain in March across 19 days.

Average Temperatures (Low / High) and Rainfall Totals by City

• Sydney, New South Wales: 64 / 77 F, 6.5 inches over 15 days
• Adelaide, South Australia: 60 / 80 F, 2.5 inches over 7 days
• Albury, New South Wales: 55 / 82 F, 1.5 inches over 5 days
• Ballarat, Victoria: 49 / 73 F, 1.4 inches over 5 days
• Brisbane, Queensland: 67 / 82 F, 3.9 inches over 13 days
• Bunbury, Western Australia: 58 / 82 F, 0.3 inches over 4 days
• Cairns, Queensland: 74 / 87 F, 14.2 inches over 19 days
• Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: 52 / 77 F, 0.3 inches over 4 days
• Darwin, Northern Territory: 76 / 90 F, 11 inches over 15 days
• Gold Coast, Queensland: 69 / 82 F, 8 inches over 15 days
• Hobart, Tasmania: 53 / 69 F, 2 inches over 12 days

What to Pack

Since the weather varies significantly depending on your destination in Australia, you should coordinate your packing with your travel itinerary for March. If visiting the northern regions, it is wise to pack waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and an umbrella, along with summer clothing like shorts and light t-shirts. Conversely, travelers heading to southern Australia may want to consider a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can drop 10 to 20 degrees overnight. Ultimately, March is an excellent month to pack lightly, as fewer articles of clothing are needed than during a trip to Europe or other Northern Hemisphere locales that require winter gear.

March Events in Australia

In addition to the generally pleasant weather, Australia offers a variety of events unique to March. Major sightseeing activities, such as visiting the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, remain available and are usually more enjoyable without the stress of large crowds. However, various annual and seasonal festivities also take place during this month.

• Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras: This multi-week festivities features a vibrant nighttime parade that garners global attention and attracts top international musical acts.
• Labour Day: Celebrated differently across Australia, typically the first or second Monday of March, this federal holiday showcases local events and activities.
• Moomba Festival: Taking place in Melbourne, this festival coincides with Labour Day weekend and includes a colorful street parade and lively events along the Yarra River.
• St Patrick’s Day: Celebrated on March 17, this cultural event highlights Australia’s strong British pub culture and is widely recognized.
• Easter: Although the date of this holiday fluctuates, many cities celebrate Easter with unique local interpretations. One notable event is the Sydney Royal Easter Show, which occurs if Easter falls in March.
• Canberra Day: This public holiday in the Australian Capital Territory features various local celebrations unique to the region.

March Travel Tips

• Although March isn’t as inexpensive as May or November, it does often offer cheaper airfare and accommodation rates. Moreover, if Easter falls in March, expect price increases leading up to and following the holiday.
• For travelers planning to visit multiple Australian locations, consider expanding your packing list to accommodate varying weather conditions across the regions. Northern Australia may necessitate rain-appropriate gear, while southern areas may require warmer layers.
• Be aware that cyclone season in Northern Queensland can impact travel during the first half of March; however, conditions typically improve by the end of the month. Therefore, consider scheduling northern adventures for later in March if possible.