Helping NSW local government adapt
The Government is committed to NSW 2021 Goal 23 Minimise impacts of climate change in local communities and has been working with Local Government NSW (LGNSW) and key stakeholders to develop tools to assist NSW councils adapt to climate change, including the following projects.
Green Cover Demonstration Design project
OEH, in collaboration with the NSW Government Architect’s Office and NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure, has developed a demonstration design report which presents leading practice landscape design and principles for green cover to manage the impacts of heat, which is project to increase under climate change.
The report focuses on two local government areas in Western Sydney, Liverpool and Penrith City Councils; however, the green cover principles can be applied to all local government areas.
The Climate Change Action Pack
This resource is supported by OEH and is available on the LGNSW website. It assists councils in addressing the significant challenge presented by climate change. The pack aims to enhance local government understanding of the impact of climate change on its areas of responsibility and assist it to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
A Guide to Climate Change Risk Assessment for NSW Local Governments
A Guide to Climate Change Risk Assessment for NSW Local Governments has been provided to assist Councils meet the Adaptation standard under the Waste and Sustainability Improvement Payment Program.
Adaptation planning for local government
Many NSW councils have completed a Climate Change Risk Assessment of their assets and operations, and are now looking to manage their climate risks through an adaptation plan and actions. Because each council is different, adaptation planning will differ, depending on the geographical location, projected climate impacts, demographics and culture of the council area.
To help councils think through the approach that best suits their needs, key questions and links to resources have been provided.
Land use planning strategies are an important part of Local Government's response to mitigating and preparing for climate change. Local Government NSW and the Office of Environment and Heritage have prepared case studies on how three NSW councils have addressed the need to prepare for climate change through land use planning strategies. The case studies are:
Page last updated: 05 March 2013
