South East Queensland (SEQ), Australia, is experiencing rapid population growth, which could exacerbate the effects of climate change. While governments, industries and communities recognise the need for adaptation, there has been no comprehensive regional assessment of climate vulnerability. To understand vulnerability and the feasibility of adaptation strategies, the authors argue that assessments of the capacity of the region to adapt to the effects of climate change are critical. The authors begin by describing the climate change adaptation context for Australia, and more specifically, SEQ. The concept of vulnerability in relation to climate change is then discussed, as well as the need to better understand adaptive capacity. Finally, the authors propose a method for enhancing adaptive capacity for climate change response.