SWELTERING CITIES LTD

Sweltering Cities Ltd is Australia’s only national advocacy organisation dedicated specifically to addressing the challenges posed by extreme heat. Founded in 2020, it emerged from concerns about the severe heat and overdevelopment in Western Sydney and the lack of representation of affected communities in climate change discussions. The organisation focuses on the health and wellbeing of communities by advocating for better, climate-safe cities that can withstand rising temperatures and protect vulnerable populations.

Mission and Vision

Sweltering Cities aims to empower communities living in Australia’s hottest suburbs by amplifying their lived experiences and advocating for community-driven solutions to extreme heat. Its vision is to create cooler, equitable, and sustainable cities where planning and policies prioritise people’s health and safety. The organisation works at the intersection of climate justice, inequality, and public health, striving to build grassroots power and increase political pressure for climate adaptation and mitigation.

Main Objectives

• Promote safe, energy-efficient homes that protect residents from extreme heat while reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
• Advocate for cooler suburbs through increased tree cover, green spaces, and accessible public cooling areas, especially in low socioeconomic regions.
• Ensure no one is left behind by supporting marginalised groups with access to heat shelters and culturally appropriate information during heatwaves.
• Foster community participation and justice by involving local residents in decision-making and campaign development.

Benefiting Groups

• Residents of Australia’s hottest and most vulnerable suburbs, particularly low-income and marginalised communities.
• People living in energy-inefficient rental homes.
• Older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those on social support payments who face increased risks during heatwaves.

Types of Services and Activities

• Community engagement and advocacy campaigns designed with and for affected communities.
• Amplifying real heatwave stories to raise awareness and influence policymakers.
• Strategic campaigns targeting improvements in urban planning, public transport infrastructure, housing standards, and heat resilience.
• Collaboration with researchers and partner organisations to inform evidence-based solutions.
• Training community advocates to share personal experiences and participate in media and public events.