New coastal planning resources for South Australian councils

As part of LGA’s Climate Ready Coasts program, three compendiums have been created to support councils with the technical, economic and engagement aspects of coastal hazard adaptation planning.

They support the effective use of the Coastal Hazard Adaptation Planning Guidelines which were adopted late last year following a co-design process with coastal practitioners from across South Australia.

These resources respond to growing challenges such as sea level rise, erosion and flooding, and aim to promote consistency and best practice throughout the state.

Assessing coastal hazards

The first compendium supports councils and coastal planners to carry out consistent, evidence-based coastal hazard assessments.

It aligns with the Coastal Protection Board policy framework and the Coast Protection Act 1972, ensuring that assessments follow state-wide expectations.

It includes:

• a standardised approach to identifying erosion, flooding, and other coastal hazards
• guidance on how natural forces – like waves, tides, wind, and sea level rise – affect South Australia’s diverse coastline
• advice on how to consider the impacts of climate change on coastal hazards, including through consistent planning horizons
• information on shoreline types and geomorphic settings across the state.

This resource ensures that hazard assessments are robust, comparable and tailored to local conditions.

Coastal Hazard Assessment compendium

Breaking down the numbers

Through the second compendium, councils now have access to clear guidance on how to scope, manage and apply economic analysis in Coastal Hazard Adaptation Plans.

Designed for both practitioners and coastal land managers, this compendium supports better decision-making and resource allocation.

Economic analysis is important in helping councils and communities understand the costs of inaction, as well as comparing different approaches to managing coastal hazards.

It includes:

• an overview of different economic methods, and how to pick the best tool for the task
• minimum standards and best practice guidance for economic assessments
• flexibility to choose methods based on project goals, budget and planning stage.

Economic Analysis for Coastal Adaptation compendium

Engaging communities and council members

Involving the community is essential when planning for changes in our coast.

The third compendium provides practical advice on how councils can engage constituents and elected members throughout the process.

It responds directly to feedback from councils and agencies involved in developing the Coastal Hazard Adaptation Planning guidelines.

This resource:

• offers tailored engagement methods, language tips and case studies
• focuses on building coastal literacy, awareness and support
• complements existing engagement tools without replacing them.

This compendium is supported by a package of tools for councils, including template surveys, workshop agendas and engagement plans.

Community Engagement compendium

Backed by a strong governance framework

The Climate Ready Coasts program has been shaped by the significant efforts of the Project Management Group.

The group includes representatives from the Adelaide Coastal Councils Network, South Australian Coastal Councils Alliance, City of Charles Sturt, Alexandrina Council and DEW who contribute expert input and attend monthly coordination meetings.

Oversight has also been provided by an Executive Steering Committee, ensuring the program has cross-sector input and is delivered on time and within budget.

Find out more

Visit coastal management for more information about the new resources and the Climate Ready Coasts program.

Climate Ready Coasts
Email: climatereadycoasts@lga.sa.gov.au