The Federal Government has released a suite of new reports aimed at helping stakeholders make informed decisions about how to build in a changing climate.

 

The Economic framework for analysis of climate change adaptation options report, and three associated case studies, focus on the impact of climate change on infrastructure networks and coastal settlements.

 

Commissioned by the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, the report and case studies were completed by a consortium led by global consultancy firm AECOM.

 

The reports aim to provide infrastructure investors, owners and managers, as well as governments at all levels, with the most cost-effective ways to prepare for the more extreme climate of the future.

 

They show how a cost-benefit approach can be used to look at options that would reduce vulnerability to climate change impacts, and how to select the option which offers the best long-term value for money.

 

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency Greg Combet said that in addition to taking action to reduce the risk of dangerous climate change by reducing carbon pollution, the Australian Government was supporting the community in adapting to a changing climate.

 

"Selecting the right timing and scale for adaptation investments is critical to achieving full value for the community, now and into the future," Mr Combet said.

 

Domestic Adaptation Branch Director John Higgins said the reports bridge the gap between climate science and effective decision making in an uncertain environment.

 

"The Adaptation Policy team has worked closely with AECOM to ensure these reports will be invaluable to infrastructure planners," he said.