The Australian Government has asked the Productivity Commission to identify regulatory and policy barriers to effective Climate Change adaptation, and to identify high priority reform options to address any identified barriers.

The Commission is also required to report on:

• policy frameworks required to facilitate effective adaptation to climate change
• the costs and benefits of identified reform options
• priority reform options
• the role of market and non-market mechanisms in facilitating adaptation
• the appropriateness of government intervention.

While relevant to the broader climate change policy debate, mitigation policy (policies designed to reduce emissions) and climate change science will not be considered in this inquiry. (However, to some extent, the degree of adaptation required will depend on the success of global mitigation efforts.)

This issues paper was released on 31 October 2011 and is intended to assist you in preparing a submission to the Commission. It covers a range of issues on which the Commission seeks information and feedback.

Initial submissions are due by Friday 16 December 2011.

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