Natural disasters could cost NSW $9bn a year by 2060, analysis finds

Modelling suggests climate change and population growth must be mitigated to avoid high damage bills and coastal hazards will dominate risk in future

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The New South Wales coastline is increasingly at risk of severe natural disasters, with the state on track for an annual damage bill of $9bn by 2060 if the effects of climate change and population growth are not mitigated.

Fresh analysis from the NSW Reconstriction Authority revealed that while the highest natural hazard risks historically were from fires and heatwaves – and, at the moment, storms and floods – coastal hazards will dominate in years to come.