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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: South Bunbury, WA

South Bunbury, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

South Bunbury faces a medium overall climate risk. The primary concerns are increasing heatwaves and potential flooding. Residents should prepare for more extreme weather events in the future.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.1
Coastal
5.4

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.1/10

South Bunbury experiences high heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. This poses a threat to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.8

2050

8.5

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

South Bunbury faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall and riverine overflow. The risk is expected to increase due to climate change.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

5.4/10

South Bunbury faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards, including sea level rise and coastal erosion. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.8

2050

6.2

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

Bushfire risk in South Bunbury is moderate due to proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry summers increase the likelihood of bushfires.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Wind

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

4.8

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone areas.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Consider potential impacts of sea level rise.
  • 4.Review insurance options and costs.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Leschenault Estuary
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Potentially affected by inundation

Low-lying areas near the Leschenault Estuary are most vulnerable to flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to bushland reserves
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Areas Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Properties bordering bushland are at higher risk.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
1 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas exposed to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk along the coastline

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in South Bunbury.

Source
2015
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near South Bunbury caused smoke haze and required fire crews to control.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Record high temperatures were recorded during a prolonged heatwave.

Source
2022
stormMinor

A severe storm caused minor damage to property in South Bunbury.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.56.8(+0.3)7.2(+0.7)
bushfire4.24.3(+0.1)4.5(+0.3)
heat7.17.9(+0.8)8.6(+1.5)
coastal5.45.6(+0.2)5.9(+0.5)

By 2030, South Bunbury is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, along with a slightly increased risk of flooding. Bushfire risk remains relatively stable, while coastal risks show a moderate increase due to sea level rise.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve home cooling and insulation

Immediate

Install energy-efficient air conditioning and improve insulation to reduce heat stress during heatwaves.

Est. cost: $5,000 - $15,000

Learn more

Elevate or flood-proof homes

Near-term

Raise homes above the projected flood level or implement flood-proofing measures to protect against water damage.

Est. cost: $10,000 - $50,000

Learn more

Create bushfire buffer zones

Immediate

Clear vegetation around homes to create a buffer zone and reduce the risk of bushfire damage.

Est. cost: $1,000 - $5,000

Learn more

Strengthen coastal defenses

Long-term

Implement coastal protection measures such as seawalls and dune restoration to mitigate erosion and sea level rise impacts.

Est. cost: $50,000+

Learn more

About South Bunbury's Climate Risk Profile

South Bunbury is located in a region that is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures are expected to lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, posing a significant risk to public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Flooding is another major concern, with the potential for both riverine and coastal flooding. Increased rainfall intensity and sea level rise are expected to exacerbate these risks, potentially impacting homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Coastal erosion is also a threat, particularly in low-lying areas.

Bushfire risk is present due to the proximity of bushland areas. Hot, dry summers create conditions conducive to bushfires, which can pose a threat to life and property. Residents should be aware of bushfire safety measures and have a plan in place in case of an emergency.

Adapting to these climate change impacts will require a concerted effort from individuals, businesses, and government. This includes measures such as improving building resilience, implementing better urban planning, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

City of Bunbury

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in South Bunbury?

The main risks are increasing heatwaves, flooding, bushfires, and coastal erosion due to sea level rise.

How can I prepare my home for heatwaves?

Improve insulation, install air conditioning, and ensure you have a plan for staying cool during extreme heat.

What should I do to protect my property from bushfires?

Create a buffer zone around your home by clearing vegetation, and have a bushfire survival plan in place.

Is my property at risk of flooding?

Check the City of Bunbury's flood maps to determine if your property is in a flood-prone area.

How will climate change affect property values in South Bunbury?

Properties in high-risk areas may experience price reductions due to increased insurance costs and potential damage from extreme weather events.

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