Bligh Government supports world-class climate change science

The State Government has announced new research funding to help the nation plan for climate change.

Climate Change Minister Andrew McNamara said $2 million would be provided to the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility, based at the Griffith University's Gold Coast campus.

“It’s testimony to the work being done here that another world-class research facility will be established in Queensland,” Mr McNamara said.

“N-CCARF will undertake leading-edge, collaborative research around climate change adaptation. It will provide robust scientific information to help not only Queensland, but the nation, prepare for the likely impacts of climate change.”

Funding for N-CCARF has been allocated under the Bligh Government’s $430 million Queensland Climate Change Fund. The state government will also provide an additional $1 million of in-kind support.

“Queensland’s Climate Change Centre of Excellence, established in 2007, will provide expert scientific advice to complement the research undertaken by N-CCARF,” Mr McNamara said.

N-CCARF will be hosted at Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Emergency Services, the James Cook, Macquarie and Murdoch universities, the Queensland University of Technology, University of Newcastle, University of Southern Queensland and University of the Sunshine Coast.

Mr McNamara said it was encouraging that so many of the State’s premier tertiary education and research institutions were working in partnership.

“Climate Change is one of the harshest realities we face and these ongoing partnerships are vital to foster the latest in technology and ideas. They will help ensure that Queensland is prepared to face the challenges of the future,” he said.

N-CCARF will also receive federal government funding of $20 million over five years, and contributions of funding and in-kind support from each of the partner organisations.

Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002