Wollongong City Council’s coastal zone study has identified more than 2,600 properties which could be affected by a major storm if sea levels rise 90 centimetres by 2100.

Council spokeswoman Renee Campbell says a 90-centimetre increase in sea level is the New South Wales Government standard.

She says the study is quite a contrast to a Federal Government report which suggested 6,000 properties were at risk.

“The study that’s been done by council has been done at a finer scale and does identify significantly less properties in the area potentially affected by sea level rises and coastal hazards,” Ms Campbell said.

The affected areas include low-lying parts of Thirroul, Woonona, Bellambi and Lake Illawarra and also some headland areas north of Bulli.

The study and associated maps will be made public next Monday, but affected landholders should already have been notified by mail.

Ms Campbell says council will hold a series of information sessions for residents before drawing up a management plan.

She says the Insurance Council of Australia advises home insurance should not be affected by the study, but people are urged to seek their own advice.

“We have been advised that the risks from any coastal hazard are presently excluded from the risks on any general policy insurance police in Australia,” she said.

“They’re currently working with Government and the productivity commission on the issue of coastal vulnerability.”