Climate projections for greater Melbourne indicate that temperatures will continue to increase; there will be more frequent and longer heat waves, increased severity and duration of bushfires, worsening air pollution, less frosts and a decline in rainfall. The city can expect more extreme weather events, including bushfires, severe storms, storm surges and heavy rainfall events. Sea levels are expected to continue rising, resulting in increased risk of coastal erosion and inundation.

This discussion paper is the initial step toward developing a Regional Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for Greater Melbourne (the Strategy).

The document summarises a broad range of issues and options that can be considered in the region. It aims to stimulate conversation and facilitate online community involvement and ownership by Melburnians.