Conclusion
Local authorities are responsible for a range of functions, services and assets that may be affected by climate change. Each community will have its own climate-related vulnerabilities and priorities.
This guide has emphasised the need to assess the potential effects of climate change on council activities and has provided a framework for doing so. A key recommendation is that councils consider climate change effects – and the additional risks and opportunities they may bring – as part of existing planning, risk assessment and operational processes. Generally speaking, councils can also respond to climate change effects via existing processes.
Decisions as to whether a climate change response is necessary should include consideration of legislative frameworks (including hazard management responsibilities, liability and existing use right considerations), community expectations for the present and the future, and the relative costs and risks of delaying action.
A distinguishing feature of climate change-related risks is that the underlying risks themselves change over time. It is important to consider whether future generations will be in a position to adequately address these changing risks if the present generation defers action.
In all cases, it is recommended that councils monitor and record local climate variables in order to better inform risk assessment and associated decision-making in their area.
By responding now to climate change impacts, councils can improve the resilience of their communities to existing natural hazards; in so doing so, they can enhance the prosperity and sustainability of present and future generations.
