Coastal erosion is the loss of coastal lands due to the net removal of sediments or bedrock from the shoreline. 

Rapid onset:

• • The NSW coast has a long history of experiencing coastal erosion events. Single storm events have caused coastal erosion, such as that associated with East Coast Low storms in 2015 and 2016 that damaged beachfront properties in Sydney. A series of large storm events in 1974 led to even more extensive damage to coastal properties and infrastructure in this region.

Slow onset:

• • Around the Australian coast, nearly 39 000 buildings are located within one hundred metres of 'soft' shorelines and are at risk from accelerated erosion due to sea-level rise and changing climate conditions (as at 2011).

  • The Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road are a result of landscape change and coastal erosion over millenia. There were originally 12 limestone features with 8 now remaining. These structures remain vulnerable to further erosion from waves.

Nevertheless Australian coastlines present many opportunities

According to the Victorian government 30% of international visitors to the state visit the Shipwreck Coast, primarily the Twelve Apostles. The Shipwreck Coast Master Plan intends to transform the region into a world class tourist destination. An investment of AU$152 million is expected to create more than 1,300 jobs.