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How National Adaptation Plan will help Australians with disability impacted by climate change.
Many Australians with disability will be eager to find out how the Federal Government plans to implement Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment and National Adaptation Plan, after it was announced this morning to combat the growing threat of climate change.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, says the plans will help Australians live with the consequences of climate change.
“Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment and our National Adaptation Plan are a roadmap to address the unavoidable impacts of climate change, to build a more resilient country for all communities, regions and industries.”
The National Adaptation Plan outlines the need for disaster preparedness, risk management plans and public emergency responses to be inclusive for people with disability, as stated in Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031.
This includes supporting physical and mental wellbeing of people with disability
5.5 million Australians live with disability, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
According to the Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA), a peak advocacy body, people with disability can experience additional health issues, which are often caused by extreme weather.
In February 2024, the disability advocacy organisation sent a letter to former Minister of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Bill Shorten, urging the government to take stronger action to prevent “hundreds of people with disability dying in each city every year” as heatwaves become hotter and longer.
The Department of Health, Disability and Aging will lead the development of the subsequent Health National Adaptation Plan, which will align with the National Adaptation Plan, providing a national coordinating framework aiming to support the health and wellbeing of all Australians in a changing climate.
In the meantime, Mr Bowen says every degree of warming prevented now will help future generations avoid the worst aspects of climate change.
We’re working alongside communities to respond and adapt to the impacts
Chris Bowen
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson, agrees, adding that taking immediate action will minimise the financial cost felt by the community.
“The Albanese Government is already undertaking considerable adaptation work, but we know there is more to be done to respond and adapt to climate change impacts, and to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”