Small islands are highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Warming, rising sea levels and increased wind run impact settlements, infrastructure, health and well-being, food and water security, economy and culture.

Understanding how climate change impacts small island communities, including how it impacts their fisheries, is critical for developing adaptation and mitigation strategies.

New research, published in Progress in Oceanography, synthesises the marine climate variability and change in the Torres Strait.

The study analysed trends in ocean and atmospheric variables and synthesise changes that occurred in key Torres Strait marine habitats and resources since the 1970s.

The authors found habitat fluctuations combined with ocean warming are impacting some fisheries. These include Bêche-de-mer, finfish such as coral trout and mackerel, prawns and tropical rock lobster

Cultural totemic species such as dugongs and green turtle are also under pressure from climate change.

The authors conclude that interconnected initiatives are needed for the region to adapt to climate change. These include long-term monitoring programs, climate change communication, adaptive strategies for fisheries and communities, as well as strong governance and policy support alongside continued efforts to empower communities through capacity building, education, and equitable engagement.

Like many climate change issues facing the marine environment, solutions require multi-disciplinary solutions, and effective communication. That’s why Sea Change Australia is bringing together fishers, aquaculture producers, industry, managers, and researchers to facilitate knowledge exchange and co-develop climate-resilient options for strong and healthy fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Australia.

We are building a national database of sector-led insights and will share highlights to showcase the key issues, challenges, and innovations emerging across Australia.

Share your knowledge on climate change, and the marine environment via our website:

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Figure from Blamey et al (2026) Marine climate variability and change in the Torres Strait, Progress in Oceanography, 247:103797, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pocean.2026.103797