Climate Risk in Stirling, Western Australia

Stirling, Western Australia
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Stirling faces a medium overall climate risk, with notable concerns related to heatwaves and bushfire. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Residents should prepare for hotter summers and potential disruptions from bushfires and coastal hazards.

Overall Risk Score

58/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
5.5

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Stirling

increasing

Flood

45/100

Stirling faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential stormwater runoff. The risk is expected to increase due to climate change.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
increasing

Bushfire

60/100

Stirling has a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry summers increase the likelihood of bushfires, and climate change is projected to exacerbate these conditions.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
increasing

Heat

70/100

Stirling is experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves. Rising temperatures pose a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Key drivers:

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
increasing

Coastal

55/100

Stirling faces a moderate coastal risk due to its proximity to the coastline. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are potential threats.

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 Stirling

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

70/100

Stirling is experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves. Rising temperatures pose a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

45/100

Stirling faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential stormwater runoff. The risk is expected to increase due to climate change.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

55/100

Stirling faces a moderate coastal risk due to its proximity to the coastline. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are potential threats.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.0

2050

6.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

60/100

Stirling has a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry summers increase the likelihood of bushfires, and climate change is projected to exacerbate these conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Fuel load

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in high-risk areas due to climate change impacts.

Price Impact

Properties in areas with high climate risk may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire-prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves and coastal hazards.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Review council's climate adaptation plans.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Indian Ocean
Elevation Range
0-50m
Flood Zone
Coastal and Riverine

Historical flood events have been recorded in low-lying areas of Stirling, particularly after periods of heavy rainfall.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

Many properties in Stirling are located in or near bushfire-prone areas, requiring specific building standards and vegetation management practices.

Heat Evidence

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

The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the coming decades, exacerbating heat stress risks.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
2 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying coastal areas are vulnerable to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk along some coastal sections.

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

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

Source
2011
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Stirling threatened properties but was quickly contained.

Source
2015
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2021
stormModerate

A severe storm caused damage to property and infrastructure in Stirling.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood454.8(+0.3)5.1(+0.6)
bushfire606.4(+0.4)6.8(+0.8)
heat707.6(+0.6)8.5(+1.5)
coastal555.7(+0.2)6.0(+0.5)

By 2030, Stirling is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave frequency and intensity. Bushfire risk is also expected to rise due to drier conditions.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve stormwater drainage

Near-term

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement bushfire management strategies

Immediate

Reduce fuel loads near properties and implement community education programs on bushfire preparedness.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Develop a heatwave response plan

Near-term

Establish cooling centers and provide support for vulnerable populations during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Protect coastal areas

Long-term

Implement coastal protection measures to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and erosion.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Near-term

Encourage water conservation practices to reduce strain on water resources during prolonged dry periods.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Stirling's Climate Risk Profile

Stirling, Western Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures are leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves, posing health risks to vulnerable populations and increasing energy demand for cooling. The suburb's proximity to bushland also makes it susceptible to bushfires, particularly during the hot, dry summer months.

Changes in rainfall patterns are contributing to both increased flood risk and prolonged drought periods. Intense rainfall events can overwhelm stormwater drainage systems, leading to localized flooding. At the same time, longer dry spells can strain water resources and increase the risk of bushfires.

Coastal areas within Stirling are also threatened by sea level rise and coastal erosion. These changes could impact infrastructure, property values, and natural ecosystems. Planning for these long-term changes is essential to protect the community and its assets.

Addressing these climate risks requires a multi-faceted approach, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adapting infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, and educating the community about climate change impacts and preparedness measures. By taking proactive steps, Stirling can build resilience and ensure a sustainable future for its residents.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Stirling?

The main climate change risks in Stirling include increased heatwaves, bushfire risk, flooding from heavy rainfall, and coastal hazards such as sea level rise and erosion.

How will climate change affect property values in Stirling?

Properties in areas with high climate risk, such as those prone to flooding or bushfires, may experience a decrease in value. Insurance premiums may also increase in these areas.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The local council is responsible for developing and implementing climate adaptation plans, managing stormwater drainage, and providing emergency services. Check the council website for more information.

How can I prepare my home for a bushfire?

You can prepare your home for a bushfire by clearing vegetation around your property, installing a bushfire sprinkler system, and having a bushfire survival plan.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Stirling?

Information about flood risks in Stirling can be found on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website, which provides floodplain mapping and related resources.

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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