Climate Risk Assessment: Redcliffe, QLD

Redcliffe, Queensland· Moreton Bay Regional Council· 4020
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Redcliffe is a coastal suburb in Queensland that faces increasing risks from climate change. The primary hazards are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion, driven by sea level rise and more intense weather events. Residents should prepare for these challenges and take steps to adapt.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.7

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Redcliffe experiences high heat risk due to its coastal location and high humidity. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and intense.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·High humidity

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Redcliffe faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying coastal location and proximity to waterways. Heavy rainfall events can lead to stormwater and riverine flooding.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

6.7/10

Redcliffe is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards, including sea level rise, storm surge, and coastal erosion. Low-lying areas are at significant risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.2

2050

7.8

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Bushfire risk in Redcliffe is relatively low due to the suburb's coastal location and limited vegetation. However, areas near parks and reserves may face some risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to flood and coastal risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk zones may experience price stagnation or decline.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess coastal erosion risk.
  • 3.Inquire about council's climate adaptation plans.
  • 4.Obtain a building inspection report.
  • 5.Consider insurance costs.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Moreton Bay
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and riverine floodplains

Historical flood events have impacted low-lying areas of Redcliffe, particularly during storm surges and heavy rainfall.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Variable, some areas adjacent to parks
Planning Overlay
QFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

While not a primary concern, bushfire risk exists in areas bordering vegetated reserves.

Heat Evidence

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

High humidity levels increase the severity of heat stress during summer months.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.1 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Significant exposure to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
Moderate to high erosion risk along exposed coastlines

Historical Climate Events

2013
floodModerate

Severe flooding impacted Redcliffe due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald, causing property damage and disruptions.

Source
2009
stormMajor

A severe storm caused significant damage to coastal infrastructure and properties in Redcliffe.

Source
2020
heatwaveModerate

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

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.3(+1.3)
coastal6.77.3(+0.6)8.2(+1.5)

By 2030, Redcliffe is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased coastal flooding, and a higher risk of storm surge due to sea level rise.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade stormwater drainage

Near-term

Improve stormwater drainage infrastructure to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement coastal protection measures

Immediate

Construct seawalls, groynes, and other coastal defenses to protect against sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Est. cost: Very High

Learn more

Develop a heatwave management plan

Near-term

Create a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Raise community awareness

Long-term

Educate residents about climate change risks and adaptation strategies through workshops, online resources, and community events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Redcliffe's Climate Risk Profile

Redcliffe, located on the Redcliffe Peninsula, is a suburb highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Its low-lying coastal geography makes it particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, storm surges, and coastal erosion. These factors contribute to a significant flood risk, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and king tides.

Rising temperatures are also a major concern for Redcliffe. The suburb experiences high humidity, which exacerbates the effects of heatwaves. As climate change progresses, the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events are expected to increase, posing a threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable populations.

While bushfire risk is relatively lower compared to other parts of Queensland, it's not entirely absent, especially in areas bordering parks and reserves. Changes in vegetation patterns and increased dryness could potentially elevate this risk in the future.

Addressing these climate challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including investments in coastal protection infrastructure, improved stormwater management, and community awareness programs. Residents and businesses need to be proactive in adapting to the changing climate to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of Redcliffe.

Moreton Bay Regional Council is actively working on climate adaptation strategies to mitigate these risks. These strategies include upgrading drainage systems, implementing coastal protection measures, and promoting sustainable development practices. Community engagement and education are also key components of the council's approach to building a climate-resilient Redcliffe.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · Moreton Bay Regional Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Redcliffe?

The main risks are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion, driven by sea level rise and more intense weather events.

How is the council addressing climate change in Redcliffe?

Moreton Bay Regional Council is implementing strategies to mitigate these risks, including upgrading drainage systems, implementing coastal protection measures, and promoting sustainable development practices.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Redcliffe?

Check flood maps, elevate your home if possible, and have an emergency plan in place.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave in Redcliffe?

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

Where can I find more information about climate change impacts in Redcliffe?

Visit the Moreton Bay Regional Council website or the Queensland Government's climate change website.

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