An assessment of coastal vulnerability to climate change in South East Queensland, Australia

¹ Griffith Centre for Coastal Management and Griffith Climate Change Response Programme, Griffith University, Australia
m.sano@griffith.edu.au ; r.tomlinson@griffith.edu.au
² Urban Research Program and Griffith Climate Change Response Programme, Griffith University, Australia
s.baum@griffith.edu.au ; f.crick@griffith.edu.au ; d.lowchoy@griffith.edu.au ; s.serrao-neumann@griffith.edu.au

Abstract

South East Queensland, one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, is highly exposed to the impact of climate change, especially on the coast. This paper explores the vulnerability of the coastal system as part of a wider regional system. This is carried out using an integrated approach combining quantitative indicators of exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity, spatially represented at the suburb level, and an analysis of the management system. The results include an assessment of the spatial vulnerability of the system and its implications to coastal management, to be used as a platform for discussion with stakeholders and decision makers at local and regional levels.