Victorian communities already know what climate change impacts are affecting them and what adaptations are needed, and they are calling out for help. The three VIC towns discussed below are three of many anxious about climate adaptation. These communities are calling for help with adapting to incoming climate change impacts and this is what they are calling for...
Photo credits (clockwise): Judy Harley, Sarah Lawrence, Ausnet, Sarah Lawrence / Photo credits (inserts): Eden Hynninen
Maribyrnong community members raised concerns with their council about a lack of community awareness of the fact that residents live on a flood plain, as well as a lack of preparation for flooding events prior to the devastating floods that occurred in October 2023. Flood mapping for the Maribyrnong catchment area was so outdated that it was irrelevant when the floods occurred and resulted in “substantially dangerous” warnings for the residents who were ultimately evacuated.
Communities are calling on their councils to do more to build local disaster awareness, and to prepare for and help communities to prepare for likely future catastrophes.
The township of Loch Sport is considered to be an area of extreme fire risk including having only single road access, tank water which is unusable when the power goes out, and substantial areas of national park surrounding it. Loch Sport has faced bushfires in the past and are considering establishing a safe boat harbour for emergency evacuation. Whilst some fire management activities are being carried out, not enough is being done. The responsibility largely falls on the community itself; for example, during the October 2023 bushfires a pub owner opened its doors as a communal location, especially for residents who lived alone.
Residents of communities are asking for better climate change preparation and emergency planning from the government.
The town of Rochester suffered greatly during the floods in October 2022 where floodwaters damaged almost every building and there were many missing and injured residents. Locals also experienced agony when watching air support flying over their town on the way to Echuca, whilst those in the smaller town of Rochester essentially fended for themselves. Severe flooding also occurred in 2011 and residents are asking for help to reduce the risk of further flooding, including the management of water levels at a nearby lake.
State assistance in particular is sorely needed to support communities to prepare for future climate change related disasters.
Take Action
Act on Climate is calling for community-led climate adaptation that is continuously and adequately funded. Add your name to show your support for a permanent Victorian Community Climate Adaptation Fund.
Or join the Frontline Climate Alliance Vic to help build grassroots power for bottom-up adaptation solutions, share knowledge and solutions with, and show solidarity with climate-impacted communities in Victoria, and build pressure on the Vic government to act on and resource climate adaptation.
Written by: Enya Venn, Act on Climate collective member
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