A joint FRDC-DCCEE funded project developed a marine climate adaptation blueprint aimed at assisting coastal communities to develop adaptation plans. The project utilised an innovative approach combining qualitative and semi-quantitative methods based on existing demographic data, expert knowledge, and semi-structured interviews.  A boundary organisation (Oceanwatch) was used to ensure that relevant linkages between climate and non-climate pressures were identified and key community and industry participants engaged. The methodology was tested on three case study communities in Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Using these case study findings, we developed a web-based blueprint for use by coastal communities to raise awareness of marine climate change and the potential flow on effects into regional coastal communities (coastalclimateblueprint.org.au). The general and locally specific information on marine climate adaptation as derived from the case studies is used for illustrative and guidance purposes. Using a Sustainable Livelihoods Analysis, an interactive assessment of community vulnerability to climate change allows community members or local governments to assess where their strengths and vulnerabilities may lie. For example, one community may have very high education levels and financial capital but be lacking in the necessary coastal infrastructure to allow the further development of commercial fisheries and aquaculture. This interactive web-based tool provides each community with a first-step indication of where specifically adaptation may be needed to ensure they remain sustainable into the future. The tool also provides a conduit for communities to undertake more detailed adaptation planning.