The Australian melon industry extends across all states and territories of mainland Australia. The main regions of production are shown on the map below.

The Australian melon industry consists of approximately 140 growers, producing in excess of 200,000 tonnes of melons annually across an area of around 8,500 hectares. This production level in 2022/23 saw 226,022 tonnes of melons produced with a gross value of production (GVP) of $248.2million. Watermelons constituted 63% of this value at $158.3million and muskmelons (including rockmelon, honeydew and other specialty varieties) were valued at $89.9million. Melons are grown 12 months of the year across Australia, in every mainland State and in the Northern Territory.

Watermelons

Most watermelons are cylindrical or round, with mottled or striped green skin, and a pink to red centre. Other varieties such as champagne watermelons (with golden flesh) are sometimes available. Watermelons are about 90% water, and 8-12% sugar. Many watermelons have dark brown seeds, but in recent years seedless watermelons have become extremely common in Australia. These may have some small white residual seeds. Watermelons are available all year round, peaking in summer, from December to May.

Rockmelons

Rockmelons are usually round or slightly elongated with firm, netted or scaly, cream or buff rind. Some rockmelon varieties have grooves or sutures running from end to end, and all have moist, sweet, orange to peach-coloured flesh, and a distinct tropical fragrance. The seeds are in the centre of the fruit. In Australia most rockmelons are fully netted melon with no sutures and orange flesh. They are available all year round peaking in summer (November to March).  

Honeydew Melons

Honeydews are usually round to slightly oval (about 15-20cm diameter) with a smooth, white or gold skin. The flesh colour ranges from pale green to green, and is moist and sweet, with seeds in the centre. Honeydew melons are available all year round peaking in summer (January and February). The flesh of white skinned honeydews is sweeter, and has a higher level of natural sugars.