Climate change is becoming a security risk for nations of Oceania and the Pacific Ocean region. Tuvalu's concern relates to the increase in water levels. Tuvalu seeing the increase water levels of the Pacific Ocean means certain islands could go under. Flooding become a danger to people, property, and the economic conditions of the country. Realizing climate change is not slowing down, one solution involved an agreement with Australia. A climate change visa has been proposed. This allows Tuvaluans to relocate to Australia due to environmental challenges. The climate change visa is not a permanent method to address climate induced disasters. Residence of Tuvalu might not want to move to another country. Australia cannot be expected to take all people from various Pacific Ocean states. Environmental protection needs to be a priority for governments across the world. The dependence on fossil fuel undermines efforts to address climate concerns. Rising sea levels are also going to effect Australia. Those living on the coast or close by the ocean makes it unsafe for residence. The climate change related visa is the first of its kind. Some Tuvaluans applied for the new visa. Adjusting to a new country can be difficult. Australians might not want to see more immigration . Tuvalu's population is smaller than Australia's. According to Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Tuvalu's population is 11,204 people. Tuvalu gained independence in 1978 and since has strived for economic development. Tuvalu has tourism potential, yet climate change remains a hinderance. Tuvalu and other members of the Pacific Islands Forum must develop new innovations to combat the effects of climate change.
