Australia faces significant threats to its security, economy, and infrastructure due to rising global temperatures, according to the federal government’s first National Climate Risk Assessment released on Tuesday.
The comprehensive report highlights 56 nationally significant climate risks, identifying 11 priority areas ranging from water resources to economic resilience. It warns that climate change could jeopardize Australia’s economy, trade, and financial systems, posing challenges across multiple sectors.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s already impacting our nation’s health, security, and prosperity,” the report states. The assessment forecasts that defense forces and emergency services will be strained as they respond to more frequent and severe natural disasters, while hospitals and healthcare professionals may confront new communicable diseases.
In a plausible worst-case scenario, insurers and banks might cease offering services to communities at high risk of extreme weather events. Such a withdrawal could trigger a cascading effect on infrastructure and the built environment, amplifying socioeconomic disparities and undermining community resilience.
The report underscores the urgency for coordinated national action to mitigate these risks. It calls for investments in climate adaptation and resilience, emphasizing that proactive measures could safeguard Australia’s economic stability and protect its citizens.
“Addressing climate risks is essential for ensuring Australia’s future prosperity and security,” the report concludes. “Immediate and sustained efforts are required across all levels of government and industry.”
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Climate change threat to Australian security, economy, infrastructure
cgtn.com
