The South Australian climate change adaptation program focuses on grass-roots engagement and building partnerships with local decision-makers from Natural Resources Management Boards, Regional Development Australia committees, local government and key regional industry leaders. The emphasis is on a collective risk management approach to decision making that enables climate change politics to be removed from regional adaptation planning processes.

The success of the adaptation program is underpinned by the identification and engagement of key stakeholders in each planning region, combined with the use of innovative communication techniques that build interest and generate ideas.  The annual South Australian Climate Change Adaptation Showcase demonstrates the collaborative nature of the adaptation program. The Showcase is well-attended by adaptation practitioners, researchers, natural resources management professionals, regional development leaders, government officials, and industry representatives from across Australia.  It provides a genuine platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities encountered in adaptation planning, and for sharing information among peers.