Australia's first-ever climate risk assessment warns of a dramatic rise in heat-related deaths and hospitalizations due to increasing global temperatures, with projections showing over 20 million people could experience temperatures above 44°C if warming reaches 3 degrees.

The report highlights that if global warming exceeds 3 degrees, impacts could become catastrophic, with some discussions suggesting a rise of up to 5 degrees, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action.

Heatwaves are already the leading cause of climate-related deaths in Australia, responsible for over 900 fatalities since 1990, and are expected to cause even more harm as temperatures continue to rise.

The assessment predicts a potential increase of over 400% in heat-related deaths in cities like Sydney, Darwin, and Townsville if warming reaches 3 degrees, with Darwin expected to face the worst effects, including severe health risks and strain on healthcare systems.

Despite these alarming projections, government officials stress that avoiding the worst impacts remains possible through continued mitigation efforts, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change.

This warning coincides with upcoming government announcements on 2035 emissions targets, amid criticism over delays and insufficient action by political parties and fossil fuel industries.

Environmental groups are urging the government to halt new fossil fuel projects to prevent further environmental degradation and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems, especially in northern Australia.

Cities like Darwin are expected to face the worst effects of heatwaves, with increasing public health risks including potential loss of life and overwhelmed healthcare systems.

Australia has already surpassed the global average temperature increase, experiencing a 1.5°C rise, which makes the threat of higher temperature scenarios even more urgent.

Heatwaves have caused over 350 deaths and more than 2,000 hospitalizations in recent years, with figures expected to rise significantly if global temperatures continue to climb.

The report emphasizes the need for climate-resilient housing, noting that 70% of Australian homes are not prepared for extreme heat, and advocates for energy-efficient renovations to reduce emissions and improve resilience.

Projections indicate that northern Australia could become uninhabitable, with some regions experiencing conditions similar to the Sahara Desert, risking displacement of First Nations communities due to climate change.

Disproportionately affected by these changes will be regional Australians, children, the elderly, and Indigenous populations, with some areas potentially becoming 'near unliveable' due to extreme heat.