This position analysis outlines recent developments in the science of sea-level rise and its influence on the effects of extreme events such as high tides and storm surges. It also identifies some of the key issues around the potential impacts of sea-level rise and extreme events and the consequences they will have for Australia and its neighbours. The aims of this position analysis are to: inform Australian 1. governments and community about recent results in the science of sea-level rise and associated events that are a consequence of climate change; 2. outline some of the likely impacts of these changes on Australia and neighbouring countries in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean regions; and 3. identify issues that will need to be considered in developing policies to respond to sea-level change and its impacts.