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Climate Risk Profile: Altona, VIC

Altona, Victoria· Hobsons Bay· 3018
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

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

Overall Risk Score

5.2/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
2.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/100

Altona is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. This poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.3

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/100

Altona faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying coastal location and proximity to waterways. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity and sea levels, exacerbating flood risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.2

Data source

coastal Risk

6.0/100

Altona is vulnerable to coastal inundation and erosion due to sea level rise. This could impact coastal infrastructure, property values, and recreational areas.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.8

2050

7.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

2.0/100

The risk of bushfire in Altona is relatively low due to its urbanized environment and distance from significant bushland areas. However, increased temperatures and drier conditions could slightly elevate the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

2.5

2050

3.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase in areas at high risk of flooding and coastal inundation.

Price Impact

Properties in vulnerable locations may experience a decrease in value due to climate risks.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal inundation zones.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Consider the long-term impacts of climate change on property value.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Port Phillip Bay
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal Inundation Zone

Several areas in Altona are identified as being at risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events and storm surges.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
5km to nearest significant bushland
Planning Overlay
No significant bushfire overlay
Bushfire Prone Area
No

Altona is primarily an urban area, limiting the risk of bushfires.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
26.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
2 days

The average maximum temperature in January is expected to increase with climate change, leading to more frequent heat stress events.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Parts of Altona are at risk from sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk along some coastal areas.

Historical Climate Events

1972
floodModerate

Major flooding event impacted Altona and surrounding areas, causing property damage and disruption to services.

Source
2005
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2011
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred in Altona due to heavy rainfall.

Source
2018
stormModerate

Severe storm caused damage to property and infrastructure in Altona.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.2(+1.2)
bushfire2.02.3(+0.3)2.6(+0.6)
heat7.07.8(+0.8)8.5(+1.5)
coastal6.06.7(+0.7)7.4(+1.4)

By 2030, Altona is projected to experience a noticeable increase in climate-related risks, particularly from heatwaves and coastal inundation. Increased rainfall intensity will also contribute to a higher flood risk.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flash flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Elevate Homes in Flood-Prone Areas

Long-term

Raise homes above the projected flood level to protect them from water damage.

Est. cost: Very High

Learn more

Plant Trees to Reduce Urban Heat Island Effect

Near-term

Increase tree canopy cover to provide shade and reduce temperatures during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop Emergency Plans for Extreme Weather Events

Immediate

Create community-based emergency plans to prepare for and respond to floods, heatwaves, and other extreme weather events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen Coastal Defenses

Long-term

Implement measures to protect the coastline from erosion and inundation, such as building seawalls and restoring dunes.

Est. cost: Very High

Learn more

About Altona's Climate Risk Profile

Altona, a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Its coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to sea level rise and storm surges, which can lead to coastal inundation and erosion. The area is also expected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, posing a risk to public health, especially for vulnerable populations.

Increased rainfall intensity is another significant concern for Altona. This can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to flash flooding, damaging property and infrastructure. While the risk of bushfire is relatively low compared to other parts of Victoria, hotter and drier conditions could increase the risk in the future.

The Hobsons Bay City Council is working to address climate change through various initiatives, including improving drainage infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, and raising community awareness. However, individual residents and businesses also need to take action to adapt to the changing climate.

Preparing for climate change in Altona involves a range of measures, such as elevating homes in flood-prone areas, installing rainwater tanks, planting trees to reduce the urban heat island effect, and developing emergency plans for extreme weather events. Staying informed about climate risks and taking proactive steps can help protect property, health, and the environment.

Longer term, managed retreat from the most vulnerable coastal areas may need to be considered. The community needs to engage in conversations about how to adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change, while also advocating for stronger action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

By working together, the community can build a more resilient and sustainable future for Altona in the face of climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · EMV

Local Government Resources

Hobsons Bay City Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Altona?

Altona faces significant risks from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal inundation due to its low-lying coastal location and climate change impacts.

How will sea level rise affect Altona?

Sea level rise is expected to increase the frequency and severity of coastal flooding and erosion, potentially impacting properties and infrastructure near the bay.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The Hobsons Bay City Council is implementing various initiatives, including improving drainage infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, and raising community awareness about climate change.

How can I prepare my home for flooding?

Consider elevating your home, installing flood barriers, and ensuring your property is properly insured against flood damage.

What can I do to stay safe during a heatwave?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, avoid strenuous activities, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find more information about climate change risks in Altona?

Visit the Hobsons Bay City Council website or the websites of relevant state government agencies for more information about climate change risks and adaptation measures.

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