2018 Reports

Adaptation Benefits and Costs of Residential Buildings in Greater Brisbane

Wang, Chi-Hsiang; Wang, Xiaomeng; Khoo, Yong Bing

The Greater Brisbane area faces significant coastal inundation risks due to tropical cyclones and projected sea level rise. Using LiDAR-based elevation data and population projections, this study evaluates adaptation options for residential buildings, comparing the benefits of raising floors in new versus all buildings. Results indicate that lifting new buildings alone provides the majority of net benefits by 2056, while retrofitting older buildings offers limited additional gains relative to cost. Optimal adaptation requires balancing the extent of flood protection with resources and planning horizons to avoid under- or overadaptation.