Climate Risk Profile for Stawell, VIC

Stawell, Victoria

Medium Risk

Updated Apr 2026

Stawell faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly bushfire and heatwave events. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather.

Overall Risk Score

52/100

Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood

4.0

Bushfire

6.0

Heat

5.0

Coastal

1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Stawell

stable

Flood

40/100

Stawell faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and the overflow of nearby waterways. Historical data indicates periodic flooding impacting residential and commercial areas.

Key drivers:

·Heavy rainfall
·River overflow

increasing

Bushfire

60/100

The area around Stawell is prone to bushfires, particularly during hot and dry summer months. The proximity to bushland increases the risk to properties and infrastructure.

Key drivers:

·Dry vegetation
·High temperatures

increasing

Heat

50/100

Stawell experiences increasing heatwave frequency and intensity. Higher average temperatures can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Key drivers:

·Rising global temperatures
·Urban heat island effect

stable

Coastal

10/100

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

stable

Wind

28/100

Moderate wind risk — cold fronts and gusty winds

stable

Storm

32/100

Moderate storm risk — severe thunderstorms

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability

increasing

Energy

35/100

Moderate energy costs — heating and cooling needs

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Stawell

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

50/100

Stawell experiences increasing heatwave frequency and intensity. Higher average temperatures can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

·Rising global temperatures
·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

40/100

Primary Drivers

·Heavy rainfall
·River overflow
·Urban drainage capacity

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

60/100

The area around Stawell is prone to bushfires, particularly during hot and dry summer months. The proximity to bushland increases the risk to properties and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

·Dry vegetation
·High temperatures
·Strong winds

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 heightened climate risks.

Price Impact

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

Buyer Checklist

1.Check flood maps and bushfire overlays.
2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
3.Review insurance options and costs.
4.Develop a household emergency plan.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway: Wimmera River
Elevation Range: 250-300m
Flood Zone: Areas near the Wimmera River are susceptible to flooding.

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland: Adjacent to the Grampians National Park
Planning Overlay: Bushfire Prone Area
Bushfire Prone Area: Yes

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp: 32°C
Heat Stress Days/Year: 3 days

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast: 180 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure: Not applicable
Erosion Risk: Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2011

floodModerate

Significant flooding occurred in the region, impacting Stawell and surrounding areas. The Wimmera River overflowed, causing property damage and road closures.

Source

2009

bushfireMajor

The Black Saturday bushfires had a significant impact on Victoria, with Stawell experiencing heightened fire risk and community concern.

Source

2019

heatwaveModerate

Stawell experienced a prolonged heatwave with record-breaking temperatures, placing strain on local infrastructure and healthcare services.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

Hazard	Today	2030	2050
flood	40	4.3(+0.3)	4.5(+0.5)
bushfire	60	6.6(+0.6)	7.0(+1.0)
heat	50	5.6(+0.6)	6.0(+1.0)
coastal	10	1.0	1.0

By 2030, Stawell is projected to experience a notable increase in bushfire and heatwave risks under a high emissions scenario. Flooding risk will also slightly increase. Adaptation measures are needed to mitigate these impacts.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Upgrade drainage infrastructure and implement flood barriers to protect properties from rising floodwaters.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness Programs

Immediate

Implement community education programs on bushfire preparedness, including evacuation planning and property maintenance.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Heatwave Early Warning System

Near-term

Develop and implement a heatwave early warning system to alert vulnerable populations and provide guidance on staying safe during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Green Infrastructure Development

Long-term

Increase green spaces and tree cover to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide shade during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Stawell's Climate Risk Profile

Stawell, located in Victoria, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include flooding from heavy rainfall and river overflow, bushfires due to dry conditions and proximity to bushland, and heatwaves with rising average temperatures.

Flooding events have historically impacted Stawell, causing damage to properties and infrastructure. Climate change is projected to increase the intensity and frequency of heavy rainfall events, potentially leading to more severe flooding.

Bushfire risk is a significant concern, especially during the summer months. The surrounding vegetation and dry conditions create a high-risk environment. Climate change is expected to prolong the fire season and increase the severity of bushfires.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a threat to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Rising temperatures can also strain infrastructure, including power grids and water supplies.

While Stawell is not directly exposed to coastal risks, the broader impacts of climate change, such as economic disruption and population displacement, could indirectly affect the region.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SES Victoria · CFA Victoria

Local Government Resources

Northern Grampians Shire Council

Climate Strategy Flood Maps Emergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Stawell?

The main climate change risks in Stawell are flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. These risks are expected to increase in the future due to rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires in Stawell?

You can prepare your property for bushfires by maintaining firebreaks, clearing gutters of dry leaves, and having a bushfire survival plan in place. It's also important to stay informed about fire danger ratings and warnings.

What should I do during a heatwave in Stawell?

During a heatwave, it's important to stay hydrated, stay in air-conditioned environments, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members, and seek medical attention if you experience heat stress symptoms.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Stawell?

Information about flood risks in Stawell can be found on the State Emergency Service (SES) website and potentially on the Northern Grampians Shire Council website. Contact the council for local flood maps and information.

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

Contact the Northern Grampians Shire Council to inquire about local climate action initiatives and community programs. Local environment groups may also be involved in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.