Councils call for support in coastal recovery

MAYORS around the region are calling for a national response to help in the coastal recovery efforts from erosion and damage caused by extreme weather events.

A national approach would focus on coastal climate risks, including rising sea levels and coastal erosion.

Erosion has been an ongoing issue at Byron Bay for several years with beaches at Ballina affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Ballina Shire mayor Sharon Cadwallader doubles as the chair of the Australian Coastal Councils Association.

She said councils are restricted by a lack of resources and coordination at a national level.

“We are calling on the Australian, State and Territory Governments to work with local government to develop a coordinated national response to coastal climate risk, recognising that 50 per cent of Australians live within seven kms of the coast,” she said.

“Given that Australia’s vast coastline stretches for around 33,000kms, it is beyond the

capacity of local councils to deal with these risks.”

Cadwallader said what is needed is for the Australian government, working with the states and territories, to develop a National Coastal Adaptation Fund to be administered at a national level.

“Coastal councils are ready and keen to work collaboratively with the Australian, state and territory governments to respond to coastal risks,” she said.

Byron Shire mayor Sarah Ndiaye said there have been ongoing issues which have been further highlighted after the extreme weather event in March.

“Despite being promised support (after the cyclone), there has not been anything locked in.” Cr Ndiaye said.

“There needs to be a comprehensive response up and down the east coast.

“It has been a deeply frustrating and difficult time trying to lock in a coastal management plan.

“We desperately need support in vulnerable areas such as New Brighton which was gutted and damaged during the recent weather event.”