Critical review of climate change and water modelling in Queensland

Summary

This project assessed Queensland’s current ability to incorporate climate variability and climate change projections in water models. Bringing together an experienced team of hydrologists, hydroclimate scientists, water quality scientists and practitioners, Alluvium Consulting Australia delivered the project in partnership with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and University of Newcastle. Using the best available science, the project provides a clear pathway to consistent, robust modelling approaches for assessing climate change in Queensland water models.

The outcomes of a workshop, an interview process with key modelling, planning and policy groups and four modelling case studies provided multiple lines of evidence to underpin the Strategic Investment Portfolio in the final project report. The investment portfolio includes 26 recommendations aligning with a primary objective to: Increase Queensland’s ability to understand the impact of climate variability and change on water-related systems, to increase economic, social and ecological resilience.

The recommendations are linked to five key outcomes which will contribute to achieving the primary objective:

• Outcome 1: Increase consistency and defensibility of approaches for assessing risks from climate variability and change.
• Outcome 2: Interpret and summarise the applicability of existing climate science and datasets for Queensland.
• Outcome 3: Address climate science and water modelling gaps through targeted research initiatives.
• Outcome 4: Empower individuals and collectives, and facilitate collaboration.
• Outcome 5: Develop training, communication and guidance materials to support Outcomes 1–4.

The QWMN is coordinating an integrated response to the final report and investment portfolio recommendations. To get involved, contact [email protected]