Daylight Saving also known as the summer time is basically a practice that is followed in Australia. Australia is a country that gains an extra hour of daylight each day for six months of the year through a practice called Daylight Saving Time (DST). Germany was the first country to set the clocks on April 30, 1916, followed by Thunder Bay in Ontario in 1908. Let’s have a detailed explanation of Daylight saving in Australia, its pros and cons, and how to adapt to it as an international student studying in Australia. Let’s begin.
This Blog Includes:
What is Daylight Saving Time in Australia?
Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Australia, the practice of advancing clocks by an hour during warmer months to extend daylight hours, was first proposed by George Hudson, an entomologist and astronomer, in 1895. This concept was later adopted by countries globally in 1916. DST helps conserve energy and maximize the usage of daylight. However, it isn’t usually practiced in regions near the equator due to minimal variation in dawn and dusk times.
Also Read: If you are a theatre enthusiast, then you must read our blog on Theatres in Australia
How long does Daylight Saving Time Last in Australia?
In Australia, DST starts on the first Sunday of October when the clocks are advanced by one hour, extending the allure of an Australian summer. It ends on the first Sunday of April when the clocks are set one hour earlier. This change was first implemented during World War I in 1916 to save energy, and it continues today.
Which States Observe Daylight Saving Time in Australia?
The Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and Norfolk Island observe daylight saving time. so if you are living in any of the student housing in Australia in these area, you will be able to observe this. However, Queensland, the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Christmas Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands do not follow this Australian clock change system. This leads to Australia having three main time zones during the winter months and five during the summer.
Effects on Your Daily Life
While “springing forward” every year might seem disruptive, there are several benefits to the Australian clocks changing. Firstly, there is more light to enjoy, which can enhance mood. Secondly, it minimizes energy consumption and saves money. Thirdly, it reduces crime rates during Daylight Saving Time. Lastly, it increases tourism as more daytime means more time to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
It is also important to note that Daylight Saving Time can cause short-term health problems, such as sleep disorders and exhaustion. To counteract these issues, you can adopt certain stress management activities in your day-to-day routine
Further Read: If you want to compare the cost of living in Australia and the UK, then you must read our blog Cost of Living in Australia vs the UK
Daylight Saving Time Today
The daylight saving time followed today is as per the Energy Policy Act of 2005 being in effect since 2007. Still, less than 40% of countries in the world use daylight saving time. In the process of daylight saving time, the clocks are always set one hour back or ahead. However, on Lord Howe Island, Australia, clocks are set only 30 minutes forward from LHST (UTC+10:30) to LHDT (UTC+11) during DST.
You will find various variations of adjustment of time like either half adjustment or double adjustment. Half adjustment means adjusting for 30 minutes while double adjustment means adjusting for 2 hours. There are instances of 20 and 40 minutes adjustments as well.
FAQs
No, several countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe, practice Daylight Saving Time.
In Australia, clocks are advanced by one hour during warmer months (October to April) to extend daylight hours.
Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia do not follow the Daylight Saving Time practice.
It begins on the first Sunday of October and ends on the first Sunday of April each year.
The benefits of Daylight Saving in Australia include more daylight for enjoyment, reduced energy consumption, lower crime rates, and increased tourism.
Thank you for reading our blog on Daylight saving in Australia. We hope you liked this blog. So, whether you’re planning a study trip or just exploring the local culture, understanding DST can make your time in Australia smoother and more enjoyable. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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