Millions committed to protect Surf Coast from rising seas

MAJOR works to address coastal erosion along the Surf Coast will be rolled out, following a $6.3 million federal funding commitment for a new coastal resilience program for the Great Ocean Road.

The investment will support erosion management projects in Torquay and Lorne, alongside the development of a regional coastal adaption plan to map vulnerable sections of the coastline and guide long-term protection strategies.

The program responds to increasing damage from severe weather, storm surge and rising sea levels along the Victorian coast.

Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment, released in September, indicates that as sea levels continue to rise, coastal flooding events and erosion are expected to occur more often.

By 2040, the cost of these coastal impacts to Victorian economy is forecast to reach $9.4 billion a year, and by 2090, it is anticipated coastal erosion events may occur around 10 times more often than they do now.

The report also identifies low-lying communities within 10km of soft shorelines as particularly vulnerable to coastal flooding and erosion.

The percentage of areas considered at high risk is expected to increase to about 35 per cent by 2090, representing more than 3 million people based on population distributions.

Corangamite federal member Libby Coker said the funding would help safeguard Surf Coast townships and beaches already feeling the effects of increasingly severe coastal conditions.

“This is a fantastic investment in the long-term safety and resilience of our Surf Coast communities.

“We know coastal erosion and extreme weather are already reshaping our coastline – that’s why planning and protection work like this is so important.”

The project is jointly funded, with the Victorian government contributing $6.48 million, and is one of 96 projects backed by the federal government’s Disaster Ready Fund.

Victorian Minister for Emergency Services, Vicki Ward emphasised the importance of preparing communities before disasters occur.

“Victorians know the devastating effects of natural disasters which are occurring with increasing frequency and severity. This important investment strengthens our ability to prepare and protect Victorian communities, lives and property.”