1.5 Million Australians at Risk from Rising Seas by 2050
Australia’s first national climate risk assessment warns that by 2050, about 1.5 million people living in coastal areas will face threats from rising sea levels and coastal flooding. The risk increases significantly under higher global warming scenarios.
Sea Level Projections
Under a moderate warming scenario (around 1.5 °C), sea levels are projected to rise by about 0.14 meters by 2050. If warming reaches 3 °C, the rise could be 0.54 meters. Even the lower figure poses serious risks to coastal communities.
Geographic Vulnerability
Eighteen out of the top twenty regions most exposed to coastal flooding are in Queensland, especially the southeast and Brisbane areas. Some islands in northern Australia, such as those in the Torres Strait, face much greater risk because sea level rise there outpaces global averages.
Additional Impacts
By 2030, about 597,000 people will be living in areas exposed to risk from rising seas if current population distributions stay the same. Beyond coastal flooding, the report also raises concerns about more frequent heatwaves, increased erosion, saltwater intrusion, and threats to infrastructure and ecosystems.
What This Means
The assessment frames sea level rise as an immediate threat, not just a long-term concern. It suggests that without strong action to limit global warming and prepare coastal infrastructure, many people will face displacement, damage to homes, and economic loss. Government adaptation and mitigation efforts are now considered essential to reduce future risks.
