Queensland's peak industry groups will have their say on living with climate change after the State Government kicked off its first consultation session on climate change adaptation in Brisbane today.

Environment Minister Vicky Darling met with key groups - including AgForce, the SEQ Council of Mayors, the Infrastructure Association of Queensland, the Queensland Conservation Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland - to discuss how Queensland's natural and built environment and rural sector will adapt to the potentially devastating effects of climate change.

"Queensland faces very real risks from changes in temperature, rainfall, sea level and extreme weather events and we need to ensure Queenslanders can prepare for these impacts," Ms Darling said.

"Climate change impacts will be different across the state - some areas will endure more frequent flooding, others will experience coastal erosion.

"That's why we are talking to stakeholders across Queensland's diverse regions and sectors to hear directly about how we can prepare for climate change impacts.

"Over the next two weeks consultation sessions are being held from the Gold Coast to Cairns to discuss the Climate change: Adaptation for Queensland issues paper.

"Changes to our climate will occur gradually over many years, but decisions and investments made today such as major infrastructure are long-lived - it's critical that we continue to plan for climate change now.

"That's why this issues paper identifies considerations across the key areas of science, human settlements, infrastructure, ecosystems, water management, primary industries, emergency management and human health.

"We want to hear how climate change will affect you, your community, your membership and your business."

Feedback on the issues paper will inform the final adaptation strategy which is due to be released in 2012.

To obtain a copy or to have your say on the Climate Change: Adaptation for Queensland Issues Paper, visit the Office of Climate Change's website at www.climatechange.qld.gov.au.

Environment

The Honourable Vicky Darling

22/09/2011