Economic and Social Impact of Disasters on Children

This report presents an analysis of the economic and social impact of disasters on children and young people in Australia, focusing on the increasing frequency and severity of disasters due to climate change. It quantifies the costs associated with these disasters, utilizing new data sources and projecting total economic costs to 2060 under various climate scenarios. The findings indicate that the annual costs of disasters affecting children and young people could rise significantly, with estimates ranging from $6.3 billion in 2025 to as high as $12.1 billion by 2060 under high emissions scenarios. The report outlines both direct economic losses, such as property damage, and social losses, including mental health impacts and disrupted education. The analysis highlights the long-term consequences for children, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these impacts. The report also discusses the implications of climate change on future disaster costs and the importance of adopting low-emission pathways to reduce potential economic burdens.