The state government has announced a shift in its coastal planning policy because it believes sea levels will rise more than original predicted over the next 100 year.
The Western Australian Planning Commission has updated the sea level rise value from 0.38m to 0.9m by 2110.
This means any coastal developments will now have a horizontal setback of 52m and it increases the total setback from 100m to 150m.
Planning Minister John Day said the policy brings WA into line with out states.
The new setback provisions will be applied to new development, with existing development being allowed to remain, and infill development (within an established developed area) also allowed.
"The decision has followed careful consideration and reflects the latest information from the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (2007) and the Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) (2008), and is consistent with other State jurisdictions' policy positions," said Mr Day.
"The position statement places the State in a sound position to avoid negative and costly impacts of sea level rise on coastal development.
"It will ensure our State's coastal planning guidelines are based on the most up-to-date information, common sense and a precautionary approach."
