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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: Chifley, ACT

Chifley, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2606
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Chifley is a suburb in the ACT that faces moderate risks from climate change, particularly related to bushfires, heatwaves and flooding. While coastal risks are negligible, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events pose a growing challenge.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.0
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Chifley experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwave events projected. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, are particularly at risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.0/10

Chifley has a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from intense rainfall events and localised stormwater runoff. Some areas are more susceptible due to lower elevation and proximity to drainage lines.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Chifley is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

Chifley faces a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. The risk is exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds, particularly during the summer months.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Strong winds
  • ·Climate change

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 rising climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience slower price growth.

Buyer Checklist

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

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Yarralumla Creek
Elevation Range
560-590m
Flood Zone
Low to Moderate Risk

Some areas near Yarralumla Creek are more prone to flooding during heavy rainfall.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Red Hill Nature Reserve
Planning Overlay
ACTmapi Bushfire Prone Areas
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Properties bordering Red Hill Nature Reserve require diligent bushfire preparedness.

Heat Evidence

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

Elderly residents are advised to take extra precautions during heatwave events.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2020
bushfireModerate

Bushfires in the surrounding region caused smoky conditions in Chifley.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

Chifley experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 35°C for several days.

Source
2016
floodMinor

Heavy rainfall caused localised flooding in some parts of Chifley.

Source
2003
bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires significantly impacted the region, causing widespread damage and smoke haze in Chifley.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.04.3(+0.3)4.6(+0.6)
bushfire6.06.4(+0.4)6.8(+0.8)
heat5.05.6(+0.6)6.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Chifley 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 Bushfire Preparedness

Immediate

Clear vegetation around properties, create a bushfire survival plan, and ensure adequate insurance coverage.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Enhance Heatwave Resilience

Near-term

Install energy-efficient cooling systems, improve home insulation, and establish community cooling centers.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Upgrade Stormwater Infrastructure

Near-term

Invest in improved drainage systems and stormwater management to reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Implement water-saving measures in homes and gardens to reduce water stress during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Chifley's Climate Risk Profile

Chifley, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary concerns for residents include the rising risk of bushfires due to hotter and drier conditions, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and an increased likelihood of flooding from extreme rainfall events.

The suburb's proximity to bushland elevates the bushfire risk, especially during the summer months when dry vegetation and strong winds create ideal conditions for fire spread. Residents need to be prepared and maintain their properties to reduce potential fuel loads.

Heatwaves are becoming more common and severe, posing a significant health risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Access to cooling and adequate hydration are crucial during these events.

While Chifley is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the increasing intensity of rainfall events can lead to localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and near drainage lines. Proper stormwater management and infrastructure maintenance are essential to mitigate these risks.

Addressing these climate-related challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including individual preparedness, community resilience initiatives, and government policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the changing climate.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Environment and Planning Directorate

Local Government Resources

ACT Government

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Chifley?

The main climate change risks in Chifley include increased bushfire risk, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and a higher likelihood of flooding from extreme rainfall events.

How can I prepare my home for bushfires in Chifley?

You can prepare your home for bushfires by clearing vegetation around your property, creating a bushfire survival plan, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage.

What can I do to stay safe during a heatwave in Chifley?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in a cool environment, drink plenty of water, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Chifley?

You can find information about flood risks in Chifley on the ACT Government's Environment and Planning Directorate website.

Is climate change affecting property values in Chifley?

Climate change may affect property values in Chifley, particularly in areas that are more vulnerable to bushfires, flooding, or heatwaves. Properties in high-risk areas may experience slower price growth.

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