Navigating coastal resilience: Exploring population density and coastal distance dynamics along the gold coast

Coastal cities, such as the Gold Coast region in Australia, are experiencing rapid urbanisation, driven by population growth and the appeal of coastal living. However, this growth poses significant challenges, including environmental preservation and vulnerability to coastal hazards like flooding and erosion. Understanding how urban expansion interacts with shifting coastal boundaries is crucial for sustainable urban planning, particularly in the context of climate change. This study investigates the dynamics of urban growth and coastal development in the Gold Coast over the past three decades. Using temporal clustering, it analyses changes in population density and distance to the coastline, identifies shifts in risk exposure to coastal hazards, and explores the relationship between coastal dynamics and urban development. The findings reveal that urban growth is concentrated in established centres, such as Surfers Paradise and Currumbin, while peripheral areas experience slower development. These patterns are influenced by natural barriers, such as waterways, and socio-economic factors, including access to economic opportunities and tourism. The study emphasises the need for a nuanced, region-specific approach to urban planning that balances growth with environmental sustainability. It also highlights the role of advanced technologies, such as remote sensing, GIS, and geospatial intelligence, including digital twins, in supporting data-driven planning and resilience strategies in coastal environments. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners addressing the challenges of coastal urbanisation.