Sydney - Australia

Coastal tourism in Australia is facing an increasing challenge with new warnings that sea level rise and coastal flooding could have widespread economic impacts over the coming decades, especially in destinations that rely on beaches, resorts and infrastructure close to the coast.

267 thousand properties are at risk

A recent report by the Climate Council, based on research from the University of Melbourne, revealed that coastal flooding could affect about 267,000 properties and more than two million hectares of land by the end of the century, while total economic losses are estimated at about 855.1 billion Australian dollars.

The risks are not limited to homes; It also includes infrastructure, commercial lands, and natural areas, which are elements directly related to the ability of coastal destinations to receive tourists and continue hotel and entertainment activities.

Gold Coast at the forefront

Queensland appears to be the most exposed in terms of the number of properties, with more than 93,000 properties at risk, while the Gold Coast alone faces expected economic losses worth 84.4 billion Australian dollars, becoming the most exposed urban area in the country.
Here the tourist sensitivity of the scene is highlighted. The Gold Coast is one of the most popular beach and entertainment destinations in Australia, which means that beach erosion, frequent storms and floods may impose additional costs on hotels, resorts, tourist facilities and municipalities.

The beach itself is already under threat

Andrew Watkins, a climate scientist and co-author of the report, pointed out that Tropical Cyclone Alfred in 2025 led to widespread erosion of beaches, and cost the city of Gold Coast about 35 million Australian dollars to repair.

What does this mean for tourists and investors?

For tourists, these transformations may mean in the future a change in the shape of some beaches, increased closures of coastal areas during harsh weather conditions, and higher service costs. As for investors in hotels and coastal resorts, it is increasingly important to evaluate site risks, insurance and protection costs before launching new projects.

The issue is no longer related only to sea rise, but rather to the broader question: Will the map of beach tourism in Australia begin to change?