It's easy to forget that there are some incredible ski fields right here in Australia — and they’re comparable to some of the best in the world.
Most of Australia’s ski fields are located in either the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and home to Banjo’s famed Snowy Mountains) or the neighbouring Alpine National Park in Victoria.
Both offer an aesthetically majestic experience — and for many Australians, also a deeply cultural one. If you've seen a silver, red and yellow snow gum submerged in morning snow, you'll never forget it.
The big questions are, where and when should you go? Find out below!
Australia's ski resorts, concentrated in New South Wales and Victoria, each bring something unique to the table. Whether you're travelling with kids, flying solo, enjoying your retirement, or planning a romantic escape, these five standout ski resorts will inspire your next snowy adventure.
Thredbo continues to lead the way for family-friendly ski holidays in 2025. With an extensive events calendar, including the ever-popular Kids' Snow Festival each September, Thredboland kids’ programs, fun runs, and even disco golf, there's something for every age and energy level.
Families benefit from generous pricing too, with under-18 discounts on lifts and lessons, and the beloved "Kids Ski Free in September" deal returning once again this season.
Thedbo also hosts the annual Torah Bright Mini Shred event, where the Australian Olympic snowboarder and her pro friends spend the day at the resort, coaching intermediate skiers and boarders under 18 in their own terrain park.
The resort's numerous awards testify to the high calibre of its offerings on all fronts.
As Australia’s largest ski resort, Perisher blends variety and accessibility across its four interconnected areas: Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega. In 2025, it remains a top pick for senior travellers and those who prefer relaxed, crowd-free skiing.
With well-groomed trails, easy access via the Skitube, and scenic alpine views, it’s a haven for both snow lovers and nature walkers. Perisher’s reliable snowfall and wide range of accommodation options make it ideal for longer stays.
Perisher has access to many kilometres of cross-country skiing trails. Bushwalking on skis (as the PXC, an organised volunteer group of cross country skiers, puts it) is a great way to experience the beauty of the national park under a blanket of snow, at close quarters.
Perisher is also included in a great value multi-destination ticket (the Epic Australia Pass), giving you access to Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham — as well as Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, Hakuba Valley and Rusutsu in Japan, and several US resorts, including Park City, Vail and Breckenridge.
Known as Australia’s ‘Powder Capital,’ Mt Hotham is a playground for seasoned skiers and snowboarders. In 2025, it's the go-to spot for solo adventurers chasing high-adrenaline descents on runs like Heavenly Valley and One Tree Hill.
Snowboarders can test their skills at Hotham's terrain parks or the World Cup-spec Boardercross Course. Beginners can ease into the action on the Cobungra Platter before tackling the more advanced slopes.
The resort also hosts Women's Ski Week, dedicated to improving skills for female skiers who can confidently ski on blue terrain or higher. The program includes instruction from top female coaches, as well as après events. There's also the Women's Snowboard Shred Session, and several other women-only activities for various levels of skill.
There are affordable accommodation options for solo travellers, like the Karnulurra Ski Lodge, offering single bookings and communal spaces where you can mingle with other guests. Or stay at Dinner Plain, 15 minutes down the road, for that alpine village feel, where there are some good lodging options, such as the cosy home-away-from-home Cloud 9 Alpine lodge.
Après ski is considered to be livelier here than at other Australian resorts, with a variety of bars, nightclubs and restaurants to cater to your inner party animal.
Snowbound and secluded, Charlotte Pass offers a uniquely intimate alpine experience. Reached only by oversnow transport in winter, it remains one of Australia's most romantic and peaceful ski destinations in 2025.
At 1,760 metres, it's also the highest resort in the country, offering consistent snowfall and top-tier snow quality. With cosy lodges, no crowds, and slopes for all skill levels, it’s perfect for couples looking to unplug and reconnect.
Charlotte Pass is also linked by cross country ski trails to Perisher and Smiggins, offering a different, slower exposure to the quiet natural attractions that are sometimes harder to appreciate when you're whizzing down on skis or snowboard.
All of the accommodation at Charlotte Pass is ski-in-ski-out. You've got a variety of options, including the romantic tower room at the famous Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel with every convenience you can think of thrown in.
New to the list for 2025, Falls Creek is an ideal destination for beginners, families, and those looking for a full alpine village experience. With more than 90 runs, mostly suited to beginners and intermediates, the vibe is inclusive and welcoming.
Falls Creek is also a hub for après-ski dining, snowshoe trails, and cross-country skiing, giving it all-round appeal beyond the downhill slopes.
Look no further, if you want a classic family holiday, where you spend all your time together (for better or for worse).
Be aware, you can't stay on-mountain — lodging is dotted around in nearby locations. Also, it's a good idea to take cash and/or your own packed lunch.
Australia’s ski season typically kicks off in early June and runs through to the end of September. Some resorts may extend operations into October when snow conditions allow. Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan.
July & August – Peak Season & Peak Snow
You're likely to get more snow at this time. Snowfall is a bit unreliable at all but the highest elevations, but snowmaking takes care of that, particularly at the big resorts.
June & Early October – shoulder period
This is a good time to go if you're looking for cheaper hotel prices, ski packages and good deals all round. It's touch and go whether you’ll have good coverage though. You'll have to play it by ear.
September – springtime
While some ski fields close in mid or even early September, those still open will be more relaxed and cheaper. What’s not to love about skiing in a t-shirt?
People don’t believe avalanches happen in Australia, but they do off-piste. They often happen because of heavy snow, but they can be deadly. To avoid being trapped in one, you might be able to take an avalanche course at the resort you’re staying at.
It’s called a sunburnt country...and that means snowfall can be fickle. Seasonal outlooks are difficult to predict, so if you’re booking shoulder season passes, you might be taking chances.
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