Table 2 Major findings from the focus group discussions
Main themes | Major findings |
|---|---|
The threat of climate change | The majority thought that our climate is truly changing but some were sceptic |
| Â | More extreme weather events |
| Â | Important to act before it is too late |
Perceptions about implications | Direct and indirect impacts are already happening |
| Â | Drought, bushfires, and vector-borne diseases were brought up as examples |
| Â | Not only was the temperature increase but also climate variability perceived as concerning |
Identification and assessment of vulnerability | Important to know what you are measuring |
| Â | Hazard characterization by dividing it into acute and chronic hazards |
| Â | Communities can decrease their vulnerability through adaptation |
Factors that influence vulnerability | Population growth |
| Â | Ageing population |
| Â | Coastal development |
| Â | Global economic crisis |
Minimising the impact of climate change on eco-environmental health | Mitigation was perceived as important |
| Â | Adaptation measures (e.g., insulation of houses) |
| Â | Public education |
| Â | Preparedness in case of extreme weather events |
Development and implementation of a framework | Review of government documents |
| Â | Examination of existing frameworks |
| Â | Assessment on how Queensland Government has responded to previous extreme weather events |