Have a say on how coastal areas are managed in future

Residents can have their say on Council’s draft plan for managing the impact of rising sea levels and other coastal hazards associated with climate change. 

Council is developing a Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan to manage the impact of rising sea levels and other coastal hazards associated with climate change.

Developed with input from scientific experts and the Noosa community, the Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan (CHAP) will guide the way Council responds to coastal erosion in Teewah, Noosa Heads, and along the eastern beaches.

It will also guide how inundation risks are managed in areas beside the lower reaches of Noosa River, including Noosaville.

“Rising sea levels and coastal hazards such as erosion, inundation and increased storm events are among the biggest environmental challenges we face,” says Climate Change Adaptation Program Coordinator, Grant Hinner.

“In the years ahead, our coastline, particularly our eastern beaches, will be more vulnerable to erosion, and our low-lying areas will be subject to regular coastal flooding from higher tides and storms.

“An important part of Council’s response to the climate emergency, the Coastal Hazards Adaption Plan will ensure our shire is as resilient as possible to these processes,” Mr Hinner said.

Council began developing the plan in 2017, gathering input from the community and technical experts.

“We’ve worked closely with scientists, engineers, property owners, community groups, residents and other stakeholders to produce the Draft Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan,” Mr Hinner said.

“All of the work we’ve done has been verified by the State Government’s Department of Environment & Science.”

Mayor Clare Stewart said the CHAP would help Council make informed decisions about spending, infrastructure planning and design, development, and land use.

“Councils have an important role to play as we’re uniquely positioned to adapt the way we build, design and locate infrastructure, and regulate land use,” she said.

“We’re committed to doing everything we possibly can to ensure the Noosa lifestyle we all love is maintained for all to enjoy. The Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan is a critical first step on that journey.”

The Mayor urged residents to review the plan and have a say.

“Over time, coastal hazards stand to impact the way we use our coastal areas. This will have implications for all of us, which is why it’s really important everyone reviews the Plan and has a say.”

Visit Council's Your Say Noosa portal to review and comment on the Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan from Monday, January 25.