| The predominant language spoken in Australia, is | | | | Winter: June - August |
| English. While there are many individuals from around | | | | Spring: September - November |
| the world who have each brought with them their | | | | If you are from the Northern Hemisphere you may |
| own native tongues, English remains as the language | | | | find it strange at first, spending your Christmas day |
| spoken in most schools, universities, businesses, and | | | | under the hot Australian sun or spending your |
| throughout government circles. | | | | mid-year break skiing in the Snowy Mountains, but |
| Climate | | | | this makes for endless opportunities of recreational |
| Australia's size means that it encompasses several | | | | fun. |
| climatic zones. The more southerly regions have a | | | | Living cost |
| temperate, Mediterranean climate with hot, dry | | | | Many temporary and permanent residents in Australia |
| summers and mild, wet winters. The areas nearer the | | | | are pleasantly surprised at how inexpensive it is to |
| equator are sub tropical and tropical, while the centre | | | | live in Australia compared to their home countries. |
| of the continent which is mainly desert climate can | | | | The cost of living in Australia is considerably lower |
| receive high temperatures in fierce summers, down | | | | than in Europe, the US, Japan and especially the UK. |
| to below freezing on a winters night. | | | | Prices for essentials such as food, drink and clothes |
| The temperature varies considerably from region to | | | | are relatively low, with manufactured goods being |
| region. For example, the average maximum summer | | | | generally a little more expensive because many are |
| temperature in Brisbane is 30°c and in Hobart it | | | | imported. However property and renting is also |
| is 21.5°c. The tropical zone has two main | | | | generally cheaper. |
| seasons - the hot wet season from November to | | | | A 'livability survey' conducted by the UK's Economist |
| April and the warm dry season from May to October. | | | | in October 2005 ranked the following four Australian |
| The temperate zone's four seasons are as followed: | | | | cities, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Sydney, |
| Summer: December - February | | | | amongst the world's top 10 desirable cities to live in. |
| Auturm: March - May | | | | |