Climate Risk in Campbell, ACT

Campbell, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2612
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Campbell is a suburb in Canberra, ACT, that faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly heatwaves and flooding. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Campbell is experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves. Urban areas retain heat, leading to higher temperatures, especially during summer.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced green spaces

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Campbell has a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to Lake Burley Griffin and some low-lying areas. Intense rainfall events can lead to localised flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Aging drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Campbell is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

Campbell faces a moderate bushfire risk due to its proximity to Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve. Dry conditions and strong winds can exacerbate the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Drier vegetation
  • ·Stronger winds

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.7

2050

5.2

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to the rising risks of flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves.

Price Impact

Properties in areas prone to flooding or bushfires may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire-prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Ensure adequate insurance coverage.
  • 4.Consider the long-term climate risks when making a purchase decision.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Lake Burley Griffin
Elevation Range
550-600m
Flood Zone
Areas near Lake Burley Griffin are prone to flooding.

Localized flooding can occur during heavy rainfall events, particularly in low-lying areas.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve
Planning Overlay
https://esa.act.gov.au/bushfire-information
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The suburb's proximity to bushland increases the risk of bushfire, especially during dry periods.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
28.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Urban areas in Campbell experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
150 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2018
stormModerate

Severe thunderstorms caused flash flooding and property damage in Canberra, including Campbell.

Source
2003
bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires caused widespread destruction and loss of life in the region. While Campbell was not directly impacted, the suburb experienced significant smoke and ash.

Source
2013
heatwaveModerate

Canberra experienced a prolonged heatwave in January 2013, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5

HazardToday20302050
flood6.56.8(+0.3)7.1(+0.6)
bushfire4.24.4(+0.2)4.7(+0.5)
heat7.08.0(+1.0)9.0(+2.0)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Campbell is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, as well as an increased risk of flooding due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk will also increase slightly.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Invest in upgrading drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement bushfire fuel reduction programs

Immediate

Conduct regular fuel reduction burns and other measures to reduce the risk of bushfires in areas surrounding Campbell.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote urban greening

Near-term

Increase the amount of green space in Campbell to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide shade during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a heatwave response plan

Immediate

Create a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including providing cooling centers and outreach services.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Campbell's Climate Risk Profile

Campbell, located in Canberra, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The suburb's proximity to Lake Burley Griffin and Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve makes it susceptible to flooding and bushfires, respectively. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are intensifying these risks.

Flooding is a concern due to increased rainfall intensity, which can overwhelm drainage systems. Bushfire risk is elevated by drier conditions and stronger winds, particularly during the fire season. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing health risks to vulnerable populations.

The ACT government is implementing strategies to mitigate these risks, including upgrading drainage infrastructure, managing bushfire fuel loads, and promoting urban greening. However, individual preparedness is also crucial. Residents should take steps to protect their homes and families from the impacts of climate change.

Long-term climate projections indicate that these risks will continue to increase. It is essential for residents, businesses, and the government to work together to build a more resilient community. This includes investing in adaptation measures, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and raising awareness about climate change impacts.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Government Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Campbell?

The main climate change risks in Campbell are flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. These risks are expected to increase in the future due to rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns.

How can I prepare my home for a flood?

To prepare your home for a flood, you should elevate appliances, seal walls, and install flood barriers. You should also have an emergency plan and know how to evacuate safely.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, you should stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

How can I protect my property from bushfires?

To protect your property from bushfires, you should clear vegetation around your home, maintain your gutters, and have a bushfire survival plan. Consider installing fire-resistant building materials.

Where can I find more information about climate change in the ACT?

You can find more information about climate change in the ACT on the ACT Government's environment website and the CSIRO website.

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