Learning from Experience: Historical case studies and climate change adaptation

Abstract

Changes of policy, actions and/or infrastructure commonly occur following extreme events. These actions are targeted at reducing the impact of any future, similar extreme event. Thus, there are parallels between adaptations around past historical events and adaptation to future climate extremes. This Report summarises the lessons and insight gained from a series of 7 Historical Case Studies of Extreme Events, being: Cyclone Tracy (Darwin, Christmas Day 1974), drought in rural communities (agricultural communities in Donald & Mildura, VIC), drought in mining communities ( Broken Hill NSW & Kalgoorlie, WA), Heatwaves (Melbourne & Adelaide, Jan-Feb 2009), QLD floods (Charleville, Jan 2008 & Mackay, Feb 2008), Storm tides (1950s-1970s, east-coast Australia), and the Pasha Bulker storm/East Coast Lows (Newcastle, June 2007).