Climate Risk Profile: Bonner, ACT

bonner, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2914
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Bonner is a suburb in the ACT that faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the coming decades, requiring proactive adaptation measures.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Bonner is susceptible to heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures posing a risk to vulnerable populations. Urban heat island effects can further amplify these risks.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urbanisation
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Bonner faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential stormwater runoff. The area's topography and drainage infrastructure contribute to this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Aging infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Bonner is not directly exposed to coastal risks due to its inland location. Coastal hazards are not a significant concern for this suburb.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

Bonner has a notable risk of bushfire due to its proximity to grasslands and bushland areas. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Fuel load
  • ·Urban sprawl

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to climate-related risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience price fluctuations.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Develop a bushfire survival plan if necessary.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Ginninderra Creek
Elevation Range
600-650m
Flood Zone
Areas near Ginninderra Creek may be subject to flooding.

The ACT government provides flood maps and information to help residents understand their flood risk.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve
Planning Overlay
ACT Emergency Services Agency Bushfire Prone Areas Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain their properties to reduce fuel loads and have a bushfire survival plan.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
28.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

The Bureau of Meteorology provides heatwave forecasts and information on how to stay safe during hot weather.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
150 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2018
stormModerate

A severe thunderstorm caused flash flooding and property damage in parts of Canberra, including areas near Bonner.

Source
2003
bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires caused widespread destruction and loss of life in the ACT. While Bonner was not directly impacted, the event highlighted the region's vulnerability to bushfires.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

Canberra experienced a prolonged heatwave in January 2017, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.0(+0.5)
bushfire6.06.4(+0.4)6.7(+0.7)
heat5.05.6(+0.6)6.0(+1.0)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Bonner is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, as well as a higher risk of bushfires due to drier conditions. Flood risk may also increase due to more intense rainfall events.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade stormwater drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement Bushfire Management Strategies

Immediate

Conduct regular fuel reduction burns and maintain firebreaks to reduce bushfire risk.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Energy Efficiency

Long-term

Encourage the use of energy-efficient appliances and building materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Develop a Community Heatwave Plan

Near-term

Establish cooling centers and provide support to vulnerable residents during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About bonner's Climate Risk Profile

Bonner, located in the Gungahlin district of the Australian Capital Territory, is a relatively new suburb that has seen rapid development in recent years. While it offers modern amenities and a family-friendly environment, Bonner is also exposed to several climate-related risks that are projected to intensify with climate change.

Flooding is a concern due to the suburb's topography and drainage infrastructure. Heavy rainfall events can lead to stormwater runoff and potential inundation of low-lying areas. Bushfire risk is also significant, given Bonner's proximity to grasslands and bushland. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can create conditions conducive to bushfires, posing a threat to homes and properties.

Heatwaves are another growing concern, with average temperatures expected to rise in the coming decades. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, are particularly at risk during extreme heat events. The urban heat island effect can further amplify these risks, making it essential to implement strategies to mitigate heat exposure.

While Bonner is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased insurance costs, could indirectly affect the suburb. Proactive adaptation measures, such as improving drainage infrastructure, implementing bushfire management strategies, and promoting energy efficiency, are crucial to building resilience and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Bonner.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Government Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Bonner?

Bonner faces increasing risks from heatwaves, bushfires, and flooding due to climate change. These risks are projected to intensify in the coming decades.

How can I prepare my home for a bushfire in Bonner?

Clear vegetation around your home, maintain firebreaks, and develop a bushfire survival plan. Stay informed about fire danger ratings and warnings.

What should I do during a heatwave in Bonner?

Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Bonner?

The ACT government provides flood maps and information on its website. You can also contact the local council for assistance.

What is the ACT government doing to address climate change?

The ACT government has a comprehensive climate change strategy that includes targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

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