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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Maroochydore, Queensland

Maroochydore, Queensland· Sunshine Coast Council· 4558
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Maroochydore faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

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

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Maroochydore faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying areas and proximity to the Maroochy River. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

6.0/10

Maroochydore is vulnerable to coastal erosion and inundation due to sea level rise. Low-lying areas are particularly at risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
  • ·Erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.2/10

Bushfire risk in Maroochydore is relatively low due to the urban environment and limited vegetation. However, areas bordering bushland may experience increased risk during dry periods.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.5

2050

4.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in high-risk areas.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk if property borders bushland.
  • 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise.
  • 4.Inquire about council plans for climate adaptation.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Maroochy River
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and Riverine

Historical flood events have impacted properties along the Maroochy River.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
0.5-2 km
Planning Overlay
Some areas have bushfire management overlays.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Check property-specific bushfire risk assessments.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
30.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas are exposed to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk along some coastal stretches.

Historical Climate Events

2022
floodModerate

Significant rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of Maroochydore.

Source
2020
stormModerate

Severe storm caused damage to property and infrastructure.

Source
2013
floodMajor

Widespread flooding impacted homes and businesses in Maroochydore.

Source
2009
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions affected vulnerable residents.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.56.8(+0.3)7.3(+0.8)
bushfire3.23.3(+0.1)3.5(+0.3)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.5(+1.5)
coastal6.06.4(+0.4)6.9(+0.9)

By 2030, Maroochydore is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with heatwaves and flooding posing the greatest challenges.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade flood defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to protect against flooding, such as levees and drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a heatwave response plan

Immediate

Implement measures to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, such as cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Protect coastal areas

Long-term

Implement coastal protection measures, such as seawalls and beach nourishment, to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Near-term

Encourage residents and businesses to conserve water to reduce the strain on water resources during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Maroochydore's Climate Risk Profile

Maroochydore, located on the Sunshine Coast, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The suburb's low-lying coastal areas make it susceptible to flooding and coastal erosion, while rising temperatures are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

Flooding is a significant concern, with the Maroochy River posing a constant threat. Increased rainfall intensity, driven by climate change, could lead to more frequent and severe flood events. Coastal erosion is also a growing problem, as sea level rise threatens to inundate low-lying areas and damage infrastructure.

Heatwaves are another major risk, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Rising temperatures can also put a strain on infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation systems.

While bushfire risk is relatively low compared to other parts of Queensland, areas bordering bushland may still be at risk during dry periods. It is important for residents to be aware of the potential for bushfires and to take steps to protect their properties.

Addressing these climate risks will require a coordinated effort from all levels of government, as well as the community. This includes investing in infrastructure upgrades, implementing adaptation measures, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Queensland Fire and Emergency Services · Sunshine Coast Council

Local Government Resources

Sunshine Coast Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Maroochydore?

The main climate change risks in Maroochydore are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion due to sea level rise.

How is the Sunshine Coast Council addressing climate change?

The Sunshine Coast Council has a climate strategy in place that outlines measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Maroochydore?

You can prepare for flooding by checking flood maps, having an emergency plan, and ensuring your property is adequately insured.

Where can I find information about bushfire risk in Maroochydore?

You can find information about bushfire risk on the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services website.

How will sea level rise affect Maroochydore?

Sea level rise is expected to inundate low-lying coastal areas, increase coastal erosion, and increase the risk of storm surges.

Are there any community groups working on climate change in Maroochydore?

Yes, there are several community groups in the Sunshine Coast region that are working on climate change issues. Contact the Sunshine Coast Council for more information.

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