Adapting effectively to the impacts of climate change

A report released today analyses how current regulations in Australia allow companies to adapt effectively to the impacts of climate change.

The report, The Role of Regulation in Facilitating or Constraining Adaptation to Climate Change for Australian Infrastructure, was developed by Maddocks Solicitors for the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency.

It was released by Acting Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Senator Chris Evans, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Mark Dreyfus.

Most of the regulations for Australian infrastructure were designed without climate change in mind.

The report identifies areas within regulatory regimes where issues may arise in the future, and makes suggestions for further analysis by governments, regulators and owners of infrastructure assets.

The report investigates regulation of infrastructure sectors including electricity, transport and telecommunications.

It also examines the ability of planning regimes, environmental impact assessment and government procurement processes to take into account risks arising from climate change.

The report will be a useful resource for planners and regulators, as well as local and state government decision makers.