Climate Risk in East Fremantle, WA

East Fremantle, Western Australia· East Fremantle· 6158
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

East Fremantle faces a medium overall climate risk. Coastal hazards and heatwaves are the most significant concerns, with increasing trends due to climate change. Residents should prepare for potential impacts on property and infrastructure.

Overall Risk Score

52/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
7.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for East Fremantle

increasing

Flood

45/100

East Fremantle faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from riverine sources and potential storm surges. The Swan River's proximity increases vulnerability.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
stable

Bushfire

30/100

Bushfire risk in East Fremantle is relatively low due to its urbanized environment and distance from large bushland areas. However, nearby reserves pose a potential threat.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Wind patterns
increasing

Heat

60/100

East Fremantle experiences a high heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwave events impacting vulnerable populations.

Key drivers:

  • ·Global warming
  • ·Urban heat island effect
increasing

Coastal

70/100

East Fremantle is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards due to its location along the Swan River and Indian Ocean. Sea level rise and erosion pose significant threats to infrastructure and property.

Key drivers:

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
stable

Wind

32/100

Moderate wind risk — winter storms

stable

Storm

28/100

Moderate storm risk — occasional severe thunderstorms

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability

increasing

Energy

39/100

Moderate energy costs — cooling demand in summer

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for East Fremantle

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

60/100

East Fremantle experiences a high heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwave events impacting vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Global warming
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.5

Data source

flood Risk

45/100

East Fremantle faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from riverine sources and potential storm surges. The Swan River's proximity increases vulnerability.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

6.0

Data source

coastal Risk

70/100

East Fremantle is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards due to its location along the Swan River and Indian Ocean. Sea level rise and erosion pose significant threats to infrastructure and property.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

30/100

Bushfire risk in East Fremantle is relatively low due to its urbanized environment and distance from large bushland areas. However, nearby reserves pose a potential threat.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Wind patterns
  • ·Arson

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in high-risk areas.

Price Impact

Properties in coastal areas may experience price fluctuations.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance coverage for climate-related events.
  • 4.Consider long-term climate projections for the area.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
0-20 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near the Swan River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted low-lying areas near the river.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 5km of reserves
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Vegetation management is crucial in areas bordering bushland.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
31.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
1 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas are exposed to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Coastal erosion is a concern along the Swan River.

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas near the Swan River.

Source
2011
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions impacted vulnerable residents.

Source
2015
stormModerate

Severe storm caused damage to coastal infrastructure.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

Record-breaking temperatures led to increased hospital admissions.

Source
2021
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after intense rainfall.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood454.8(+0.3)5.3(+0.8)
bushfire303.1(+0.1)3.2(+0.2)
heat606.6(+0.6)7.2(+1.2)
coastal707.8(+0.8)9.0(+2.0)

Under a moderate emissions scenario, East Fremantle will experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with coastal hazards and heatwaves posing the greatest challenges.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Coastal Protection Measures

Immediate

Implement coastal protection measures such as seawalls and dune restoration to mitigate erosion and inundation risks.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Urban Greening Initiatives

Near-term

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Improved Stormwater Management

Near-term

Upgrade stormwater drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risks.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Community Awareness Programs

Long-term

Conduct community awareness programs to educate residents about climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Emergency Response Planning

Immediate

Develop and regularly update emergency response plans to prepare for extreme weather events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About East Fremantle's Climate Risk Profile

East Fremantle, located at the mouth of the Swan River, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Sea level rise poses a direct threat to low-lying areas, increasing the risk of coastal inundation and erosion. The increasing frequency and intensity of storm surges exacerbate these risks, potentially damaging infrastructure and property along the coastline.

Heatwaves are becoming more common and severe, impacting the health and well-being of residents, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. The urban heat island effect further amplifies these impacts, making it essential to implement strategies to reduce urban temperatures.

While bushfire risk is relatively lower compared to other regions in Western Australia, the presence of nearby reserves means that East Fremantle is not entirely immune. It's crucial to maintain vegetation management practices and ensure residents are prepared for potential bushfire events.

Flooding from the Swan River and intense rainfall events also poses a risk, particularly to properties located near waterways. Implementing effective stormwater management systems and maintaining drainage infrastructure are essential to mitigate these risks. Addressing these climate risks requires a coordinated effort involving local government, residents, and businesses to build a more resilient community.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in East Fremantle?

The main climate change risks in East Fremantle include coastal inundation, erosion, heatwaves, and flooding. Sea level rise and increased storm intensity exacerbate these risks.

How will sea level rise affect East Fremantle?

Sea level rise will increase the risk of coastal inundation and erosion, potentially damaging properties and infrastructure along the Swan River and coastline.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The Town of East Fremantle is implementing various strategies to address climate change, including coastal protection measures, urban greening initiatives, and improved stormwater management.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in East Fremantle?

To prepare for heatwaves, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The council provides cooling centers during extreme heat events.

Where can I find information about flood risks in East Fremantle?

Information about flood risks can be found on the Town of East Fremantle's website, including flood maps and emergency preparedness guides.

Are there any bushfire risks in East Fremantle?

While the bushfire risk is relatively low, it's important to be aware of the potential for bushfires in nearby reserves. Stay informed about fire danger ratings and have a bushfire survival plan.

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What A$69 could save you from

$7.2B
2022 insured disaster losses*
$300B+
climate risk to property by 2050*
30-120%
insurance premium increases in high-risk areas*

*Industry sources: ICA, APRA, RBA

Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only · 8 hazard scores · Insurance trajectory · 2030 & 2050 projections