Australian ski season is not always the first place people think of as a go-to ski destination but there really is a thriving snow season that Australians and visitors alike look forward to every year. The alpine regions of Australia are in Victoria, north-east of Melbourne and in New South Wales, southwest of Sydney. The snow season officially starts on the Kings Birthday Holiday weekend (the second weekend of June) and finishes in early September.
So, as winter approaches in the southern hemisphere, Australia’s alpine regions are preparing for an exciting 2025 ski season. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, the snowfields of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria offer a range of experiences to suit every preference. Here’s everything you need to know, to plan your snowy getaway ‘down-under’. If you’ve got limited time or just want and easy trip to the snowfield, you can book organized tours to both the New South Wales and Victorian resorts.
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Australian Ski Season: New South Wales (NSW)
Opening Weekend: The NSW ski season kicks off on the King’s Birthday long weekend, with resorts like Thredbo and Perisher opening on June 7, 2025.
❄️ Top Ski Resorts
- Thredbo: Renowned for its long runs and vibrant village atmosphere, Thredbo offers a mix of terrain suitable for all skill levels. The resort’s highest lifted point reaches 2,037 meters, providing stunning views and excellent skiing conditions.
- Perisher: As the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher boasts 1,245 hectares of skiable terrain and 47 lifts. It’s a family-friendly destination with diverse runs and extensive facilities.
🎿 Ski Equipment Hire
Both Thredbo and Perisher have on-site equipment rental shops offering skis, snowboards, boots, and clothing. Additionally, the nearby town of Jindabyne hosts several rental outlets, often at more competitive prices.
🏨 Accommodation
- On-Mountain: Stay close to the action with accommodation options like the Thredbo Alpine Hotel or The Man From Snowy River Hotel in Perisher.
- Jindabyne: A popular base for visitors, Jindabyne offers a range of accommodations from budget motels to luxury apartments, along with dining and shopping options.
🧭 Getting There
- From Sydney: Approximately a 5.5-hour drive to the Snowy Mountains. You can rent a car in Sydney or most large towns to make the trip.
- From Canberra: Around a 2.5-hour drive.
Regular coach services operate from major cities to the resorts, and shuttle buses run between Jindabyne and the ski fields.
www.australia.com
Ski Lessons
Both resorts offer comprehensive ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels. Group and private sessions are available, with specialized programs for children and beginners.
Australian Ski Season: Victoria
Opening Weekend: Victorian resorts like Mt Buller and Falls Creek are set to open on June 7, 2025, with Mt Hotham following on June 8.
❄️ Top Ski Resorts
- Mt Buller: The most accessible resort from Melbourne, Mt Buller is ideal for day trips or weekend getaways. It offers a variety of runs and a lively village atmosphere.
- Falls Creek: Known for its extensive cross-country trails and family-friendly environment, Falls Creek provides ski-in/ski-out accommodations and a range of terrain for all abilities.
- Mt Hotham: Offering some of Australia’s most challenging terrain, Mt Hotham is a favorite among advanced skiers. The resort features excellent ski-in/ski-out lodging options.
🎿 Ski Equipment Hire
Each resort has rental shops providing a full range of ski and snowboard equipment. Nearby towns like Bright (for Mt Hotham) and Mount Beauty (for Falls Creek) also offer rental services, often at lower rates.
🏨 Accommodation
- Mt Buller: Offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly lodges, all within walking distance of the slopes.
- Falls Creek & Mt Hotham: Both resorts provide ski-in/ski-out accommodation, including apartments, chalets, and hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences.
🧭 Getting There
- From Melbourne: Mt Buller is approximately a 3-hour drive, making it the closest major resort to the city. Falls Creek and Mt Hotham are about 4.5 to 5 hours away. Car hire is a good option for visitors. You can find rental cars in cities and most large towns.
Coach services run from Melbourne to the resorts, and shuttle buses are available from nearby towns to the ski fields.
🎓 Ski Lessons
All Victorian resorts offer ski and snowboard lessons for various skill levels. Programs include group lessons, private instruction, and specialized classes for children and beginners.
🎟️ Lift Passes & Deals
Consider purchasing the Epic Australia Pass, which provides unlimited access to Perisher, Falls Creek, and Mt Hotham for the 2025 season, along with benefits at international resorts. perisher.com.au
📌 Final Tips
- Book Early: Accommodations and lessons can fill up quickly, especially during school holidays.
- Check Road Conditions: Snow chains may be required, and some roads can be affected by weather conditions.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on resort websites and social media for the latest updates on snow conditions and events.
Whether you’re carving down the slopes or enjoying après-ski activities, the 2025 Australian ski season promises unforgettable experiences in both New South Wales and Victoria.
