100 + INNOVATIONS
National Heat Vulnerability Observatory
A nationally consistent approach to measuring and reporting urban heat vulnerability across Australian cities
Learn More
Research Project
Challenge
Heatwaves claimed more Australian lives than all other natural hazards combined between 1900 and 2010. They also have significant impacts on energy, water and economic cost. This project establishes benchmark data and analyses the cooling potential of urban development, providing an evidence base for informed decision-making to mitigate these impacts.
Solution
The project has established benchmark datasets to monitor heat vulnerability tailored to specific urban contexts and local overheating issues, as well as performance measures and key indicators, providing a consistent methodology for heat vulnerability assessment. It has also established analytical modelling for cities and precincts, including what-if scenario analyses of mitigation interventions to investigate the cooling potential of urban development. Lastly, it offers repeatable data collection protocols that enable benchmark datasets for more Australian cities.
Target customers / end-users
• government: develop evidence-based, effective mitigation strategies to reduce heat vulnerability
• planners, developers, architects, and designers: establish specific heat mitigation planning controls and design requirements
• communities: adapt to extreme heat.
Progress
• AU $ 500k + funding from NSW Government Digital Restart Fund
• partnership with NSW DCCEEW
• 43 government representatives attended the Government User Needs Workshop.
Prototype developed
TRL 5
Sustainable transition
Housing & Connected Communities
The project has created a new National Heat Vulnerability Observatory Index, connected to the NSW Digital Twins. It monitors heatwaves, built environments and sociodemographic characteristics, and assesses thermal, energy and health impacts – helping planners make better decisions to reduce heat risks.
• 125