Climate resilience plan formalised

The Northern Midlands Council has formally adopted its Climate Resilience Strategy 2025-2028, setting a clear pathway for climate resilience and sustainability in the region. 

“Our climate has changed, and it continues to change,” Mayor Mary Knowles said.

“We are already facing challenges, and markets and insurers are asking how councils are responding. We also have legal advice that reinforces the need to consider climate change in our decision making. 

"This strategy ensures that we take leadership, act responsibly, and plan for future generations so they do not carry the entire burden.” 

The Climate Resilience Strategy focuses on making council assets and services climate-ready, understanding how decision-making can support increased resilience and transforming the organisation so that climate change is mainstreamed across all roles and functions. 

Key actions include: 

• Building a solid evidence base to guide decision-making. 

• Assessing and mitigating climate risks to infrastructure, services, and communities. 

• Regional collaboration to strengthen our approach and share resources. 

• The establishment of Northern Tasmanian Alliance for Resilient Councils NTARC - a unique initiative led by the Northern Councils to support sound decision-making and minimize potential liabilities. 

The Strategy aligns with the Northern Midlands Council’s Strategic Plan 2021-2027, ensuring a coordinated approach to long-term planning. 

A formal review will take place in 2028 alongside the review of the Strategic Plan to maintain alignment and momentum. 

“We all need to act, but we also need to know when and how,” Mayor Knowles said. 

“This is more than just electric vehicles, going solar or flooding - it’s about ensuring that we are acting responsibly and getting climate-ready as a council and providing leadership to our communities.” 

"NMC recognises that hurdles, such as past planning decisions, must be addressed. However, by taking proactive steps now, the council is on a pathway to creating a thriving and resilient future for the Northern Midlands community."