One and a half million Australians living in coastal areas are at risk from rising sea levels by 2050, a landmark climate report has warned.
Australia's first National Climate Risk Assessment predicted more frequent and severe climate hazards like floods, cyclones, heatwaves, droughts, and bushfires.
Australians are already living with the consequences of climate change today, Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen said, but it's clear every degree of warming we prevent now will help future generations avoid the worst impacts in years to come.
The report looked at three global warming scenarios - above 1.5C, above 2C, and above 3C.
Australia - one of the world's biggest polluters per capita - has reached warming of above 1.5C, the report noted, warning of grave consequences should temperatures rise further. At a 3C increase, heat-related deaths in Sydney could increase by over 400% and nearly triple in Melbourne.
The 72-page report has been released just days before the government announces its new emissions reduction targets for 2035, finding that no Australian community will be immune from the cascading climate risks posed by rising temperatures.
Areas in northern Australia, remote communities, and the outer suburbs of major cities are highlighted as particularly vulnerable. The report predicts property values could plummet by A$611 billion (approximately $406 billion).
Additionally, it points out that coral reefs such as the Great Barrier Reef will face higher risks of bleaching and loss of biodiversity. This will put pressure on health, critical infrastructure, natural species and ecosystems, and primary industries, the report stated.
In response, the Australian government has announced a national adaptation plan aimed at unifying efforts across federal, state, and local governments to combat climate issues. Climate Council chief executive Amanda McKenzie called for more ambitious emissions cuts in light of the report's findings.
