PRESS RELEASE: NSW Land and Environment Court ruling criticised by coastal councils

Media Statement

NSW Land and Environment Court ruling criticised by coastal councils

August 10 2026: A ruling allowing a seawall to be constructed at the Entrance North on the New South Wales central coast highlights the need for a coordinated national approach to managing coastal hazards, according to the Australian Coastal Councils Association.

Association Chair Cr Karen Foster said the NSW Land and Environment Court ruling, which overturns a decision by the Central Coast Council, highlights the need for a coordinated national adaptation strategy supported by national funding.

“The court’s ruling allows a piecemeal approach to dealing with coastal erosion and inundation, whereas what is needed is a national strategy involving all three levels of government,” she said.

Cr Foster said coastal councils lack the funding or strategic direction guidance needed to respond effectively to the impact of climate change on Australia’s extensive coastline.

“The impact of coastal hazards is a significant national issue that cannot be addressed by cash-strapped local councils.

“It requires a national strategy with national leadership and national funding.”

Cr Foster said the Australian Coastal Councils Association, which represents the interests of councils around Australia’s coastline, is conducting a national survey to gauge the extent and impact of coastal hazards on coastal councils and their communities and to explore options for responding to coastal erosion, inundation and other hazards.

She said the early findings of the survey identify that dealing with coastal hazards is a major priority for coastal councils and that funding is a key concern. The findings are expected to be released later in 2026.

Further information:

Cr. Karen Foster, Moyne Shire Council, Mob: 0438 582 888