Where do Cyclones occur?

Cyclone tracks in Australia: 1907 - 2005 

Cyclone tracks in Australia: 1907 - 2005
© Geoscience Australia

In an average season, tropical cyclones are mostly experienced in northwest Australia between Exmouth and Broome in Western Australia and in northeast Queensland between Port Douglas and Maryborough. In the Australian region, the official tropical cyclone season runs from 1 November to 30 April with most occurring between December and April. On average, about 10 cyclones develop over Australian waters each year and around six of these cross the coast.

There is some correlation between cyclone frequency and the El-Nino Southern Oscillation status, with activity subdued in El-Nino events and enhanced during La-Nina events, especially in the Coral Sea.

Interesting fact: The greatest number of tropical cyclones in the Australian region in any one year was 20 in 1983. Since 1950, the lowest number of tropical cyclones in any season was just five in 1987.

Topic contact: hazards@ga.gov.au Last updated: July 13, 2011