Climate change funding boosts SA

In Brussels, where he was invited to speak on “Adaptation to Climate Change in the Focus of Companies - Opportunities and Risks for the Economy”, Mr Hunter said the funding would be devoted to a number of initiatives across the state.

"This funding continues the state government’s commitment to preparing SA for the inevitable impacts and opportunities of climate change," he said.

"SA is a climate change leader and our award-winning adaptation framework is world renowned, having been featured at Climate Week in New York in September 2014."

Mr Hunter also announced that the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility would be holding its 2016 National Conference in Adelaide, with $50,000 provided by the state government to secure the event.

"This is an important gathering of key decision-makers in climate change, and will provide us with an opportunity to showcase the state’s knowledge and expertise," he said.

"The government is also continuing to support this framework locally, giving $25,000 each to the Eyre Peninsula and Yorke and Mid-North Local Government Associations to assist in developing and implementing climate change adaptation planning in their regions."

A further $25,000 has been made available to the Onkaparinga, Marion, Mitcham and Holdfast Bay Councils to produce regional mapping of urban heat islands in the city’s south, to identify where green infrastructure and water sensitive design would be best put in place.

The Adelaide Hills Wine Region have been provided $8000 to extend a study to help adapt our vineyards to heat wave events through improved water management and preparation.

Mr Hunter is now in Lyon, France, attending the World Summit of Climate and Territories with Premier Jay Weatherill.

The event is hosted by the Government of the Rhône-Alpes Region and features participation of sub-national governments from around the world.