Extreme heat is the number one cause of weather-related illness and death in all parts of Australia, except Tasmania. Older, poorer, and sicker people are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. 

This report identifies the locations around Australia in which the greatest number of vulnerable people will be affected by extreme heat. Targeting these areas for support will ensure the greatest number of vulnerable people are helped during periods of extreme heat.

Vulnerability to heat is unevenly distributed across Australia. In most states and territories, coastal areas tend to be cooler and have lower concentrations of vulnerable people than inland and rural areas. This means that extreme heat poses a greater threat to outer-urban and rural areas than inner-urban areas, especially those near the sea.

Climate change is exacerbating existing inequalities and disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable Australians. While all vulnerable people would benefit from support to avoid the risks associated with heat exposure, this report identifies the locations of greatest need because they have a higher concentration of vulnerable people and face a higher likelihood of extreme heat.