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Climate Risk in Queanbeyan, ACT

Queanbeyan, Australian Capital Territory· Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council· 2620
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Queanbeyan faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with increasing trends due to climate change. Bushfire risk is also present. Coastal risks are negligible due to its inland location.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/100

Queanbeyan is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/100

Queanbeyan faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Queanbeyan River. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/100

Queanbeyan is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/100

The area around Queanbeyan has a moderate bushfire risk, particularly in areas bordering bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures could increase this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Higher temperatures
  • ·Increased fuel load

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in areas with higher flood or bushfire risk.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone land designations.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Consider long-term climate risks when making purchasing decisions.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Queanbeyan River
Elevation Range
560-680m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Queanbeyan River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted residential and commercial areas near the river.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Areas bordering Googong Foreshores and surrounding reserves.
Planning Overlay
Refer to NSW Rural Fire Service bushfire prone land maps.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Properties in bushfire prone areas are subject to specific building codes and regulations.

Heat Evidence

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

Heatwaves can strain local infrastructure and emergency services.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Significant flooding of the Queanbeyan River caused damage to properties and infrastructure.

Source
2003
bushfireMajor

The 2003 Canberra bushfires impacted areas near Queanbeyan, causing significant damage and displacement.

Source
2017
floodMinor

Minor flooding along the Queanbeyan River.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire4.04.2(+0.2)4.5(+0.5)
heat6.06.4(+0.4)7.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Queanbeyan is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased flood and heatwave risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risk, such as levees and improved drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement Bushfire Management Plans

Immediate

Develop and implement bushfire management plans for properties in high-risk areas, including fuel reduction and fire breaks.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop Heatwave Response Plans

Near-term

Create heatwave response plans to protect vulnerable populations, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation measures to reduce the impact of droughts and water scarcity.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Queanbeyan's Climate Risk Profile

Queanbeyan, located near the Australian Capital Territory, is subject to several climate-related risks. The most significant of these is flooding, due to its proximity to the Queanbeyan River. Increased rainfall intensity, driven by climate change, could lead to more frequent and severe flood events. Urban development can also exacerbate this risk by increasing runoff.

Bushfire risk is also a concern, particularly in areas bordering bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures, both consequences of climate change, can increase the likelihood and intensity of bushfires. Proper land management and fire prevention measures are crucial to mitigating this risk.

Heatwaves are another growing threat. Rising temperatures and the urban heat island effect can lead to dangerously high temperatures, especially during summer. This poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

While Queanbeyan is not directly exposed to coastal risks, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and economic activity, could still affect the region. Adapting to these risks will require a combination of local and regional efforts.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW Rural Fire Service · Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council

Local Government Resources

Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Queanbeyan?

The main climate change risks for Queanbeyan are increased flooding, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and a higher risk of bushfires.

How is the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council addressing climate change?

The Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council is developing and implementing climate change strategies to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Queanbeyan?

To prepare for heatwaves, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

How can I protect my property from bushfires in Queanbeyan?

To protect your property from bushfires, clear vegetation around your home, maintain fire breaks, and have a bushfire survival plan.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Queanbeyan?

Information about flood risks in Queanbeyan can be found on the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council website and the NSW State Emergency Service website.

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