How can Australia’s most treasured protected areas adapt to a changing climate? By collaborating with experts, property managers, and Traditional Owners, this project is co-developing tailored adaptation strategies for Kakadu National Park and the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area (Queensland section), ensuring their resilience for generations to come.
Strengthening climate adaptation for World Heritage areas
Enhancing Australia’s ability to manage significant protected areas is critical in the face of climate change. By applying and testing the Australian Government’s World Heritage Adaptation Planning toolkit in Kakadu National Park and the Queensland section of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, researchers will work alongside property managers and Traditional Owners to assess climate vulnerabilities and develop site-specific adaptation plans.
Integrating scientific research, cultural knowledge, and stakeholder engagement will provide a structured approach to managing climate risks, ensuring the long-term resilience of these globally significant landscapes.
Delivering actionable strategies and national guidance
A key outcome of this initiative is the development of detailed adaptation strategies for Kakadu and Gondwana that improve their resilience and World Heritage outlook. Partnering with Parks Australia and the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, the effort will include risk assessments, workshops, and decision-making frameworks tailored to each site. Insights gained from these case studies will strengthen national conservation efforts by refining adaptation tools and methodologies for broader application. By building capacity across Australia’s conservation sector, this work supports a proactive, evidence-based response to climate change in protected places.
Want to know more?
Please contact the project lead, Sarah Boulter, University of Tasmania.
Or email us at info@nesp2climate.com.au.