Abstract

Evidence from the scientific community indicates that anthropogenic or cyclic climate change is associated with sea level rise. This paper discusses a case study of urban and regional planning for sea level rise in South Australian coastal communities. Projections indicate that regardless of whether carbon emissions are reduced today sea level rise will still occur. South Australia’s coastline spans over 5,067 kilometres and contains more than 60,000 buildings which will be affected by sea level rise, coastal flooding and erosion. Supported by a review of relevant coastal planning policy and literature, the research addresses the effects of sea level rise on coastal development, and the role of private enterprise and the three tiers of government in planning for rising sea levels. It is argued that there is fragmentation in the roles of government and the private sector. Private agencies lack information on sea level rise issues, and are not involved early enough in the planning process. For property owners there are no regulations in place that necessitate notification when purchasing or developing a property on action to address sea level rise. It is concluded that planning for sea level rise in South Australia requires input from all sectors to achieve a sustainable coastal planning system and that State Government should take a greater role in coordinating the process. Lessons are drawn for planning in coastal communities more generally.