The coast is many things, an eco-system, a holiday destination, an economic resource, a memory, a history, a policy, a plan and so on. Common to all these, and every idea and articulation of the coast, is communication. From newspapers, radio and television to Facebook feeds and Instagram posts; via policy documents and gatherings in community halls; on a beach somewhere and at your local Nippers carnival; and throughout these Coast to Coast conferences, the coast is being communicated in ways that signal much more than a simple ‘message’.

This panel challenges conference attendees to think deeply about the diverse and complex ways in which the coast is communicated in our private lives and in public domains. Panellists will begin to chart the ways in which communication performs a critical role in expert and everyday understandings of the Australian coast and coasts everywhere.

Drawing on recent empirical data, the panellists will speak to their work on the Australian coast and other environments. The discussion will canvass both theoretical and practical possibilities, drawing on a range of recent coastal conflicts to highlight challenges to, and opportunities for the communication of Australian coasts. As environmental communication scholars, the panellists will open a new dialogue, centred on the role of journalism, media and communication, with those in active and authoritative positions at the fore of coastal sciences, planning and policy, advocacy and care.