East coast
April to October: the main season across Queensland, NSW, and Victoria, with the most reliable surf of the year; autumn is the sweet spot, with warm water, clean conditions, and quieter lineups.
November to March: smaller waves and warmer conditions; a more accessible period for beginners and longboarders, with occasional tropical swells lighting up the Queensland coast in late summer.
West coast
April to September: the peak season along the Western Australia coastline, with powerful Indian Ocean swells and offshore conditions lighting up the exposed reefs and points around Margaret River; best for intermediates and above.
October to March: swells ease and conditions become more manageable.