Sydney experiences coldest start to winter in 30 years while parts of northern Australia swelter

In the first week of winter, most south-eastern cities experienced colder than usual temperatures coupled strong winds, with residents rugging up to face the crisp weather.

Weatherzone meteorologist Ben Domensino said the cold snap was unusual this early into the season.

Sydney has endured its coldest first week of June in more than 30 years.

The strong winds have made it feel even colder, said Domensino.

The series of cold fronts early in the season appear to be setting up a good ski season.

It is a very different situation in parts of northern Australia where record-high June temperatures are occurring.

Bradshaw in the Northern Territory hit 37.8C on Sunday, the second highest June temperature on record in Australia.

Domensino said the unusually low and high temperatures were linked.

In its latest climate driver update, the Bureau of Meteorology forecasted a negative Indian Ocean dipole for winter.