The Victorian Government has tabled its Climate Change Adaptation Plan before State Parliament, with State Minister for Climate Change, Ryan Smith, saying that it will provide for improved climate risk planning, strong leadership and partnerships with local government.

“The Victorian Climate Change Adaptation Plan sets out Government action to manage the risks of a changing climate, such as hotter days and sea level rise, and builds Victoria’s resilience to extreme events,” Mr Smith said.

“By planning proactively, Victoria will be better placed to manage climate risks, minimise possible costs and harness opportunities that may arise.

The whole-of-government plan addresses six key areas:

  • Existing adaptation responses;
  • Roles and responsibilities – providing greater guidance on the roles and responsibilities of state, local government and business;
  • Key strategies and priorities – establishes key whole-of-government strategies and priorities;
  • Integrating climate risk management – embedding climate risk management across all government departments and regions;
  • Partnerships – building local government capability through closer partnerships; and
  • Regional focus – recognising the importance of place-based responses to managing climate risks.

Mr Smith said being aware of and managing risks was a responsibility shared by everyone, including all levels of government, communities, individuals and businesses.

“By providing a clear State Government direction through this plan, we create the right settings for local government, individuals and business to pursue their own climate risk planning,” Mr Smith said.

Mr Smith said local government was a key partner in helping Victorians adapt to a changing climate.

“Forums such as the Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnership, which we have established and which represents all 79 Victorian local councils, will be a key mechanism to help state and local government work together on practical climate change adaptation,” Mr Smith said.

The plan can be found here