August 13, 2025
Adaptation is no longer niche; it’s national. In July, climate change adaptation had worked its way into mainstream headlines and everyday conversations. From sports fields to courtrooms, and to the world stage at The Hague, Australians are confronting the reality that adapting to climate change is everyone’s business, not just for the scientists and policymakers.
Climate adaptation took centre stage at the Climate Adaptation 2025 conference in Perth, where over 400 delegates from across Australia came together to share knowledge and accelerate action. As part of this conference, I reflected on Australia’s climate change adaptation progress based on new evidence from the recently released Australian Adaptation Database.
Our work shows that Australia has done the hard yards of setting up policy and governance mechanisms necessary, yet the most difficult work is largely still to come; there is a need for substantial investment and funding channelled to those best placed to deliver frontline projects and programs.
Momentum is building; let’s keep it going. Join us for a deep dive into the Australian Adaptation Database.
Tia Brullo
Research Fellow,
University of Melbourne
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