The summers in Australia are unpleasant for the main part, I agree, and you will have to learn to manage them in the way immigrants must learn to manage -50 and snowstorms in Manitoba. UV is a problem and so is intense heat, especially at night. Worse, there is no regulation making sure tenants are safe in terms of adequate cooling/heating systems in rental houses and units - some don't even have ceiling fans. I would add that a lot of the "red cheeks" you describe might not be UV damage but simple heat radiation, so long as you are wearing a serious sun block. I only ever use Factor 50, but my main weapon is simply avoiding going out at all during the most intense times.
If you think this is hot, you're going to love December - February, but don't lose heart. Manage it with air-con, ceiling fans, lots of water, good Factor 50, long sleeve shirts, hats, good sunglasses, and most of all using shade wherever you find it.
