Assessing is considered a preliminary step to responding, however there was a trend across the Region of more response actions relative to the identification and assessment of risks.

Based on the survey results, most Councils have undertaken some type of risk assessment exercise, however in many cases they are not comprehensive and do not necessarily link to the actions that have been undertaken as part of their response strategy.

As this section includes the consideration of whether a Council has an adaptation plan or strategy, it was weaker due to the lack of such documents across the Region with the exception of two Councils.