Coasts, Estuaries and the Sea

Impacts of Climate Change on Coasts, Estuaries and the Sea

The effects of climate change are starting to become apparent. Due to the complex inter-relationships that exist between oceanic and atmospheric systems, the full, long-term effects of climate change on coasts, estuaries and marine systems are not known. Nevertheless, key indicators of climate change are tracking at the upper limit of recent projections. As a result, Victoria’s important coastal and marine ecological systems are likely to experience significant change, with implications for housing, tourism, fisheries and all other industries that depend on coastal and marine systems.

This section explores the effects of climate change on Victorian coasts and the sea, covering ocean acidification, altered ocean currents, sea level rise and coastal inundation. In addition, a review of governments’ responses to these issues is included, as are recommendations for mitigating and adapting to the challenges that climate change presents for Victoria’s coasts.

Part 4.4.4 - Impacts of Climate Change on Coasts, Esturaries and Sea (PDF - 337 KB)