There has been substantial research effort in Australia to understand impacts of climate change and the vulnerability of natural marine systems and the humans that depend on them. More recently adaptation planning and testing has begun. The Australia-wide NCCARF Phase 1 program of research into marine biodiversity and fisheries supported research that showed that climate change is already affecting Australia’s oceans, through long term change and extreme events. Biological responses, such as species range extensions have been widely documented. Vulnerability assessment methods and case studies show where attention is needed. Adaptation options exist and are being considered in a range of marine sectors, and trials of adaptation options are in the early stages. Importantly, management and policy responses are under development across marine agencies.