Climate Risk in Fremantle, Western Australia

Fremantle, Western Australia· City of Fremantle· 6160
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Fremantle faces increasing risks from heatwaves, coastal erosion, and flooding due to climate change. Sea level rise and extreme weather events are key concerns for the suburb.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Fremantle is experiencing increasing heatwaves and higher average temperatures. 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

8.5

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Fremantle faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the coast and the Swan River. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

6.0/10

Coastal erosion and inundation are significant threats to Fremantle due to sea level rise. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surge
  • ·Erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.8

2050

8.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Bushfire risk in Fremantle is relatively low due to its urban environment and coastal location. However, nearby bushland areas could pose a threat under extreme conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Windy conditions

Projections (RCP8.5)

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 vulnerable locations may experience price reductions

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves
  • 3.Inquire about council's climate adaptation plans
  • 4.Review insurance coverage for climate-related risks

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
0-20 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and riverine flood zones

The City of Fremantle has identified several areas at risk of flooding and is working on mitigation strategies.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
5km to Beeliar Regional Park
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Areas Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

While Fremantle itself is largely urbanized, surrounding areas are designated as bushfire prone.

Heat Evidence

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

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in Fremantle, particularly during the summer months.

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 the coastline

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in low-lying areas of Fremantle.

Source
2011
stormModerate

A severe storm caused coastal erosion and damage to infrastructure along the Fremantle coastline.

Source
2013
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on the electricity grid.

Source
2018
coastalMinor

High tides and storm surge caused minor coastal inundation in Fremantle.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.5(+1.5)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.5(+0.5)
heat7.07.8(+0.8)8.8(+1.8)
coastal6.06.7(+0.7)8.0(+2.0)

By 2030, Fremantle is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased coastal erosion, and a higher risk of flooding. Sea level rise will continue to be a major concern.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Coastal Protection Measures

Immediate

Implement coastal protection measures such as seawalls, beach nourishment, and dune restoration to reduce the impact of sea level rise and erosion.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Improved Drainage Systems

Near-term

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Preparedness Plans

Immediate

Develop and implement heatwave preparedness plans to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Vegetation Management

Long-term

Implement vegetation management practices to reduce bushfire risk in surrounding areas.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Community Awareness Programs

Near-term

Educate the community about climate change risks and adaptation measures.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Fremantle's Climate Risk Profile

Fremantle, a coastal suburb of Perth, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to low-lying areas, increasing the risk of coastal inundation and erosion. The frequency and intensity of heatwaves are also projected to increase, placing stress on infrastructure and public health.

Flooding from heavy rainfall and storm surges is another concern for Fremantle. The Swan River and the suburb's proximity to the coast make it susceptible to both riverine and coastal flooding. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, with more intense rainfall events and higher sea levels.

While bushfire risk is relatively lower compared to other areas in Western Australia, nearby bushland areas could still pose a threat under extreme conditions. It's important to maintain vegetation management practices to minimize this risk.

Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort from local government, residents, and businesses. Implementing adaptation measures such as coastal protection, improved drainage systems, and heatwave preparedness plans is crucial to building resilience in Fremantle.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks facing Fremantle?

The main climate change risks facing Fremantle include sea level rise, coastal erosion, increased heatwaves, and flooding.

What is the City of Fremantle doing to address climate change?

The City of Fremantle is implementing various adaptation measures, including coastal protection, improved drainage systems, and heatwave preparedness plans. They also have a climate strategy in place.

How will sea level rise affect Fremantle?

Sea level rise will increase the risk of coastal inundation and erosion, particularly in low-lying areas of Fremantle. This could damage infrastructure and property.

What can residents do to prepare for climate change?

Residents can take steps to prepare for climate change by checking flood maps, assessing their property's vulnerability to heatwaves, and reviewing their insurance coverage.

Where can I find more information about climate change in Fremantle?

You can find more information about climate change in Fremantle on the City of Fremantle website, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.

Is my property at risk from coastal erosion?

Properties close to the coastline are at higher risk of coastal erosion. Check with the City of Fremantle for specific erosion risk assessments in your area.

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