NSW Government moves to protect Port Macquarie coast from climate change

PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council has secured nearly $200,000 for the next phase of its Coastal Management Program (CMP).

The long-term initiative is aimed at safeguarding the region’s estuaries and coastline from the impacts of climate change.

The NSW Government funding follows a previous grant of $216,667, which helped Council identify and assess coastal hazards including erosion, inundation, and rising sea levels.

The next phase will focus on developing practical, community-informed solutions to protect access to the region’s iconic beaches and waterways.

“Port Macquarie-Hastings is known for its natural beauty, clear water and sandy beaches, which attract millions of tourists every year,” said Gabrielle Pietrini, Director of North East Conservation at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

“Its waterways have important traditional, natural, cultural, social and economic values that need to be managed carefully.

“This is why we are invested in making sure we are giving the community the tools it needs to protect the coastline.

“Community consultation will be a key feature of this next stage, allowing locals to contribute to the shaping of the final CMP.”

Once the plan is finalised, Council will be eligible to apply for additional funding to implement the proposed actions.

The funding is part of the NSW Government’s Coastal and Estuary Grants Program, which operates on a 2:1 co-funding model, helping local councils with both planning and implementation of coastal protection measures.

By Sis HIGGINS