Cheap Flights to Australia from the UK

Flights to Australia from the UK are long-haul journeys, usually taking between 22 to 24 hours, including a stopover, depending on your departure city and chosen airline. Australia is served by several major international airports, with Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL) being the most popular entry points for UK travellers.

There are no true non-stop direct flights from the UK to Australia at present, so most passengers travel via connecting hubs in cities like Dubai, Singapore, Doha, or Hong Kong. Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways are among the most popular choices for flights to Australia from the UK.

Return fares for cheap flights to Australia from the UK typically start from around £650–£900 during low season and can climb to £1,200–£1,800 or more during peak travel periods such as Christmas and summer holidays. Booking 8 to 12 weeks in advance is usually the smartest way to lock in the best prices.

Australia is famous for its stunning coastlines, world-class cities, unique wildlife, and the Great Barrier Reef, making it one of the most exciting long-haul destinations for travellers from the UK.

Popular Places to Visit in Australia

Destinations	Route Type from UK	Search Flights
Flights to Sydney	Two-Stop	Enquire Now
Flights to Melbourne	Direct	Enquire Now
Flights to Brisbane	One-Stop	Enquire Now
Flights to Perth	One-Stop	Enquire Now
Flights to Adelaide	One-Stop	Enquire Now

Major Airports in Australia

<p><span style="font-size:11pt; font-variant:normal; white-space:pre-wrap"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span style="color:#000000"><span style="font-weight:700"><span style="font-style:normal"><span style="text-decoration:none">Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)</span></span></span></span></span></span><br></p>

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)

Australia's busiest international airport and the most common arrival point for UK travellers. Located just 8 km from Sydney city centre, it offers excellent transport links, including trains, buses, and taxis to the city and beyond.

Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Also known as Tullamarine Airport, this is Victoria's main international gateway. It is around 23 km from Melbourne's city centre and connects well to the city via SkyBus and taxi services.

Brisbane Airport (BNE)

The main airport for Queensland, Brisbane Airport is a great entry point for travellers heading to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, or exploring the Great Barrier Reef. It sits about 14 km from the Brisbane CBD.

Perth Airport (PER)

Serving Western Australia, Perth Airport is the closest major Australian airport to the UK in terms of flight routing via the Middle East. It is a popular choice for travellers heading to Western Australia's beaches and national parks.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

The gateway to Tropical North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns Airport is ideal for nature lovers and divers looking to explore one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

Airlines Flying from the UK to Australia

Singapore Airlines

Qantas

Malaysia Airlines

British Airways

Cathay Pacific

Emirates

Qatar Airways

Australia Flight Prices by Month

Months: April, May, September

Average Return Fares: £650–£900

Why Prices Vary: Off-peak season with lower tourist demand and fewer travellers heading to Australia.

Months: March, June, October, November

Average Return Fares: £900–£1,200

Why Prices Vary: Comfortable weather and steady travel demand make these months a popular yet affordable choice.

Months: December, January, July, August

Average Return Fares: £1,200–£1,800+

Why Prices Vary: Peak holiday season, Christmas travel, and school summer holidays drive prices up significantly.

Best Time to Visit Australia

Summer in Australia (December to February)

Australian summer falls during the UK winter months. This is the peak beach season, with warm temperatures across most of the country. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are lively with events and outdoor festivals. However, flights and hotels tend to be at their most expensive during this period.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Australia for UK travellers. The weather remains warm and pleasant, crowds begin to ease, and flight prices start to drop. It is an ideal time to explore Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road, and South Australia's wine regions.

Winter in Australia (June to August)

Australia's winter is mild in most parts of the country, especially in Queensland and the Northern Territory. This is actually the best time to visit Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef, and Uluru, as temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is a beautiful season across Australia, with wildflowers blooming in Western Australia and pleasant temperatures in major cities. It offers a good balance of affordable flights and great weather, making it a popular choice for UK travellers planning a trip Down Under.

Travel Tips for Australia

Visa: UK citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa before entering Australia. These can be applied for online quickly and easily.

Currency: Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are widely accepted, but it is always handy to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

Language: English is the official language, so UK travellers will feel right at home communicating across the country.

Transport: Australia is a vast country, so domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between cities. Trains, buses, and car hire are also popular options.

Time Zone: Australia has multiple time zones. Sydney and Melbourne are typically 9 to 11 hours ahead of UK time, depending on daylight saving.

Weather: Pack for the season you are travelling in. Australian summers can be extremely hot, so sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential.

Health: No vaccinations are required for most UK travellers, but travel insurance with medical cover is strongly recommended.

Flights to Australia

Cheap Flights to Australia from the UK

Popular Places to Visit in Australia