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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Charnwood, Australian Capital Territory

Charnwood, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2615
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Charnwood faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are projected to increase with climate change. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The suburb is not exposed to coastal risks.

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

Charnwood is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Charnwood faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential stormwater runoff. The risk is influenced by local topography and drainage infrastructure.

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

Charnwood is not directly exposed to coastal risks due to its inland location.

Projections (N/A)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

Charnwood has a moderate to high bushfire risk due to its proximity to surrounding bushland areas. Hot, dry summers and strong winds can exacerbate the 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 stagnation or decline.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire-prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance coverage and potential premium increases.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades to reduce cooling costs.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Ginninderra Creek
Elevation Range
580-620m
Flood Zone
Potentially affected by overland flow

Local drainage infrastructure may be insufficient to handle extreme rainfall events.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Dunlop Nature Reserve
Planning Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain firebreaks and clear vegetation around their properties.

Heat Evidence

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

Urban heat island effect can increase temperatures by several degrees.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2018
stormModerate

Severe thunderstorms caused flash flooding and property damage in Charnwood.

Source
2003
bushfireMajor

The 2003 Canberra bushfires impacted the region, causing significant damage and loss of life. Charnwood was affected by smoke and ember attacks.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in January 2017 resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2020
stormMinor

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding and minor property damage.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.1(+0.6)
bushfire6.06.4(+0.4)6.8(+0.8)
heat5.05.6(+0.6)6.2(+1.2)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Charnwood is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as a higher risk of bushfires and flooding.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve stormwater drainage infrastructure

Near-term

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

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement bushfire mitigation measures

Immediate

Conduct regular fuel reduction burns, maintain firebreaks, and educate residents on bushfire preparedness.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a heatwave management plan

Near-term

Establish cooling centers, provide public health advice, and ensure access to water during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage water-efficient landscaping and appliances to reduce water demand during droughts and heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Charnwood's Climate Risk Profile

Charnwood, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The primary concerns are flooding from intense rainfall, bushfire risk due to surrounding bushland, and increasing heatwave frequency and intensity.

Flooding is a concern due to the suburb's topography and existing drainage infrastructure. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, potentially overwhelming the current systems. Residents should be aware of flood risks and take appropriate precautions.

Bushfire risk is elevated due to the proximity of bushland areas. Hot, dry summers and strong winds create conditions conducive to bushfires. Maintaining properties and adhering to fire safety guidelines are crucial for mitigating this risk.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a threat to vulnerable populations. Ensuring access to cooling and staying hydrated during heatwaves is essential for protecting health. The urban heat island effect may exacerbate these conditions.

While Charnwood is not directly exposed to coastal risks, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased insurance costs, may still affect the suburb. Preparing for these indirect impacts is important for long-term resilience.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Government

Local Government Resources

ACT Government

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Charnwood?

Charnwood faces risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are projected to increase with climate change.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires?

Maintain firebreaks, clear vegetation around your property, and have a bushfire survival plan.

What should I do during a heatwave?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Charnwood?

Refer to the ACT Government's flood maps and emergency services website.

How is the ACT Government addressing climate change?

The ACT Government has a climate strategy that includes emissions reduction targets and adaptation measures.

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