As the frequency and intensity of storms, floods, droughts and bushfires increases, so too does the pressure on  emergency response organisations, government and community organisations.

The Tasmanian economy is characterised my many small dispersed communities and family owned small businesses. Many communities are in coastal areas which are vulnerable to climate change impacts. Some of these communities may become isolated by flood, fire or sea level rise over time.  

Planning for climate adaptation must consider both critical infrastructure and emergency management. Community recovery is enhanced where local businesses are part of the local disaster response and where business interruption can be reduced.

This paper draws on two recent complementary projects that support coastal communities and small business to understand and assess their risk exposure, identify and plan to reduce climate impacts and to 'bounce back' more quickly following a disaster event.

Improving business continuity planning and considering emergency management in adaptation planning will build the resilience necessary for adaptation.