Mild to warm summer, cold winter
	(cool temperate climate)

Where is it?

In Australia, this climate type is found in the highlands of Victoria and New South Wales and all of Tasmania, except for the east coast (see chart). Hobart and Canberra have a cool temperate climate.

What's it like?

The cool temperate climate has mild to warm summers and cold winters. In the higher parts of the Snowy Mountains, snow can fall at any time of the year. In Tasmania, summer snow has been reported at elevations as low as 300 m.

House design aim:

In this climate, the aim is to maximise building heat gain in winter. Overheating in summer needs attention in some places (for example, Canberra) and not in others (for example, Hobart). Press here for design tips for a cool temperate climate.

What to look for in a building block?

Access to sunshine throughout autumn, winter and spring is the top priority - avoid blocks which will be over-shadowed by obstructions to the north, east or west. You'll need information on solar elevation. Shelter from cold winter winds is also a consideration. Sites on hilltops are windier than those in valleys. Check the prevailing wind direction in winter; sites on the lee side of hills will offer some protection.

Return to Comfortable, Low-energy Houses