CANBERRA: More than 1.5 million Australians living in coastal areas could be at risk from rising sea levels by 2050, according to the nation’s first National Climate Risk Assessment.

The report warns that climate hazards—including severe floods, cyclones, droughts, heatwaves, and bushfires—are expected to intensify in frequency and severity.

It stresses that no community will be immune, with threats described as “cascading, compounding and concurrent.”

Property losses could reach A$611 billion, while water quality may worsen due to floods and bushfires.

Health impacts are also projected to escalate, with Sydney facing a potential 400% increase in heat-related deaths at 3°C warming, and Melbourne seeing nearly triple the toll.

Vulnerable regions include northern Australia, remote communities, and outer city suburbs.

The report also warns of mounting pressure on health systems, infrastructure, ecosystems, and emergency responders.

Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen said Australians are already experiencing climate impacts and urged action: “The cost of inaction will always outweigh the cost of action.”