Climate Risk Assessment for Farrer, ACT

Farrer, Australian Capital Territory· 2607

Medium Risk

Updated Mar 2026

Farrer faces increasing risks from bushfires and heatwaves due to climate change. Flooding is also a concern. Residents should prepare for more extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

55/100

Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood

4.0

Bushfire

6.0

Heat

6.5

Coastal

1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Farrer

increasing

Flood

40/100

Farrer has a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from intense rainfall events and localised stormwater runoff. Some areas are more susceptible due to topography and drainage capacity.

Key drivers:

·Increased rainfall intensity
·Urban development

increasing

Bushfire

60/100

Farrer faces a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can exacerbate the risk during bushfire season.

Key drivers:

·Increased frequency of heatwaves
·Drier vegetation

increasing

Heat

65/100

Farrer is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Key drivers:

·Rising average temperatures
·Urban heat island effect

stable

Coastal

10/100

Farrer is not directly exposed to coastal risks such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

stable

Wind

24/100

Moderate wind risk — gusty summer winds

stable

Storm

28/100

Moderate storm risk — spring/summer thunderstorms

stable

Social

18/100

Moderate social stability — high public sector

increasing

Energy

32/100

Moderate energy costs — heating and cooling

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Farrer

Should I Buy

Property buying guide with climate risk assessment

Flood Risk

Flood zone mapping, historical events, and projections

Bushfire Risk

BAL assessment, vegetation proximity, and fire history

Climate Safety

Multi-hazard safety assessment to 2050

Storm Risk

Severe weather, hail, and wind risk analysis

Heat Risk

Extreme heat days, urban heat island, and cooling costs

Insurance Costs

Premium estimates and insurance availability

Investment Score

Climate-adjusted property investment analysis

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

65/100

Farrer is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

·Rising average temperatures
·Urban heat island effect
·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

flood Risk

40/100

Farrer has a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from intense rainfall events and localised stormwater runoff. Some areas are more susceptible due to topography and drainage capacity.

Primary Drivers

·Increased rainfall intensity
·Urban development
·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

Farrer is not directly exposed to coastal risks such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

60/100

Farrer faces a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can exacerbate the risk during bushfire season.

Primary Drivers

·Increased frequency of heatwaves
·Drier vegetation
·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 coverage and potential premium increases.
4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway: Yarralumla Creek
Elevation Range: 580-620m
Flood Zone: Low to Moderate

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland: Adjacent to Canberra Nature Park
Planning Overlay: ACT Emergency Services Agency Bushfire Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area: Yes

Heat Evidence

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

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2003

bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires caused widespread damage and loss of life in the ACT region.

Source

2018

heatwaveModerate

Canberra experienced a prolonged heatwave with record-breaking temperatures.

Source

2022

floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localised flooding in parts of Canberra, including some areas near Farrer.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

Hazard	Today	2030	2050
flood	40	4.5(+0.5)	5.0(+1.0)
bushfire	60	7.0(+1.0)	8.0(+2.0)
heat	65	8.5(+2.0)	10.5(+4.0)
coastal	10	1.0	1.0

By 2030, Farrer is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increasing the risk of heat stress. Bushfire risk will also increase due to drier conditions.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Home Insulation

Near-term

Upgrade insulation to reduce energy consumption and improve thermal comfort during heatwaves and cold snaps.

Est. cost: $5,000 - $10,000

Learn more

Install Rainwater Tank

Near-term

Collect rainwater for garden irrigation and toilet flushing to reduce reliance on mains water and mitigate flood risk.

Est. cost: $3,000 - $8,000

Learn more

Create Defensible Space

Immediate

Clear vegetation around your home to reduce bushfire risk. Maintain a 20-meter defensible space.

Est. cost: $500 - $2,000

Learn more

Develop Emergency Plan

Immediate

Create a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, contact information, and essential supplies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Farrer's Climate Risk Profile

Farrer, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increasing the risk of heat stress for vulnerable populations. The suburb's proximity to bushland also elevates the risk of bushfires, particularly during dry and windy conditions. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, leading to longer bushfire seasons and more extreme heat events.

Flooding is another concern for Farrer, with potential for localised flooding from heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff. While not directly coastal, changes in rainfall patterns can still impact the suburb. It is important for residents to be aware of flood risks and take appropriate precautions.

The ACT government is implementing various strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving resilience to extreme weather events. However, individual preparedness is also crucial for protecting lives and property.

Homeowners should consider measures such as installing rainwater tanks, improving insulation, and creating defensible space around their homes to reduce bushfire risk. Staying informed about weather forecasts and emergency warnings is also essential. Community engagement and participation in local climate action initiatives can further enhance resilience.

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

Local Government Resources

ACT Government

Climate Strategy Flood Maps Emergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Farrer?

The main climate change risks in Farrer are increasing heatwaves, bushfire risk, and potential for localised flooding.

How can I prepare my home for a heatwave in Farrer?

To prepare your home for a heatwave, improve insulation, install window coverings, and ensure you have access to air conditioning or fans. Stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbours.

What should I do during a bushfire in Farrer?

During a bushfire, follow the instructions of emergency services. If you are in a high-risk area, evacuate early. If you are staying to defend your property, have a well-prepared bushfire survival plan.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Farrer?

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

Are there any community initiatives to address climate change in Farrer?

Yes, there are various community initiatives to address climate change in Canberra. Check the ACT Government's website for information on local sustainability programs and community groups.