Palaszczuk Government funding helps Brisbane prepare for sea level rise

The Palaszczuk Government is backing Brisbane City Council’s Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy (CHAS) with a $380,000 grant delivered through the state’s $12 million QCoast2100 program.

Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch said QCoast2100 helps councils and communities understand and prepare for storm tide inundation, coastal erosion, and the emerging threat of rising sea levels caused by climate change.

“This new funding will mean council can carry out an assessment of coastal hazards in areas of concern, and identify assets at risk, as well as examine management options to keep the community safe,” Ms Enoch said.

“Engagement and education of the community is another important part of the project – ensuring citizens play a prominent role in shaping the response to this significant issue.”

The areas of concern include the bayside suburbs of Brighton, Sandgate, Nudgee, Lota, Wynnum and Manly, commercial and industrial areas on the Brisbane River, the city CBD, and bay islands including Moreton Island.

“Brisbane City Council intend to undertake this project between July 2018 and July 2019,” Ms Enoch said.

“They join 28 other Queensland councils that have already been awarded funding, which is available to all coastal councils.”

The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) is administering the QCoast2100 program and continues to help councils with their proposals and project preparations.

LGAQ President Mark Jamieson said QCoast2100 is accessible to all Queensland coastal local governments, irrespective of their current level of planning, capability and resourcing.

“More than half of Queensland’s 77 councils will be exposed to coastal hazards in the future,” Mr Jamieson said.

“It’s vital that local governments work together to assess risks and identify practical solutions that will help them prepare for flooding, erosion, and other coastal challenges.”

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