Air Quality Index (AQI) in Australia 🇦🇺
Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in Australia
Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Canberra, the capital of Australia, is measured at a score of 17. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Good. The current atmosphere in Canberra is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 3.1 µg/m³ and PM10 levels recorded at 3.7 µg/m³. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 4.1 µg/m³.
Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across Australia based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Sídney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaida. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.
Australia Air Quality: Major Cities Index
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Pollution Monitor & AQI Forecast: Australia Regions
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* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for Australia is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.
Browse Air Quality in Australia by cities in alphabetical order:
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Quality in Australia
What is the air quality in Australia right now?
The current AQI in Canberra (capital of Australia) is 17 — categorised as Good. Conditions vary across the country — see AQI for all cities for a complete picture.
Which city in Australia has the worst air quality right now?
Right now, Wollongong has the highest AQI reading in Australia at 71 (Moderate).
Which city in Australia has the best air quality right now?
Launceston currently has the lowest AQI in Australia at 6 (Good).
What is the PM2.5 level in Canberra today?
Is the air in Australia safe to breathe today?
Most cities in Australia currently report acceptable air-quality levels, though local conditions vary.
What are the cleanest cities in Australia right now?
Top 5 cities in Australia with the best (lowest) AQI right now:
- Launceston: AQI 6 — Good
- Ballarat: AQI 7 — Good
- Geelong: AQI 14 — Good
- Hobart: AQI 14 — Good
- Canberra: AQI 17 — Good
What are the most polluted cities in Australia right now?
Top 5 cities in Australia with the worst (highest) AQI right now:
- Wollongong: AQI 71 — Moderate
- Maitland: AQI 70 — Moderate
- Sídney: AQI 66 — Moderate
- Costa de Oro: AQI 56 — Good
- Darwin: AQI 56 — Good
Understanding Air Quality Levels
Air is fresh and healthy. Safe for all outdoor activities.
Acceptable air quality, though sensitive groups should monitor comfort.
Vulnerable groups (children, elderly) should limit outdoor exertion.
Everyone begins to experience health effects. Stay indoors where possible.
Significant health impact for entire population. Emergency conditions.
Serious health alert: everyone may experience serious life-threatening effects.
Fine particles are at minimal, safe levels. Air is optimal.
Acceptable air, but haze may be present in urban areas.
Individuals with heart or lung disease should limit activity.
Particulate levels high enough to cause respiratory irritation.
Heavy haze. High risk to cardiovascular health for the public.
Lethal particulate concentrations. Critical neurological and lung risk.
Low levels of dust and coarse particles. Environment is safe.
Coarse particles may trigger coughing in sensitive groups.
Visible dust pollution. Sensitive groups should avoid heavy labor.
Widespread respiratory impacts likely for the population.
Dangerous dust and debris levels. Significant warnings issued.
Extremely high concentrations. Stay inside with filtration.
Surface ozone levels are within a safe, natural range.
Acceptable air, but sensitive individuals may feel chest tightness.
Rising ozone can trigger airway inflammation in active children.
Avoid heavy outdoor work during the hottest part of the day.
Serious lung function reduction likely across the public.
Emergency ozone levels. Risk of permanent lung tissue damage.
Nitrogen levels are optimal. Safe for everyone.
Typical background levels for high-density urban areas.
Increased risk of respiratory infections for vulnerable groups.
Significant airway inflammation likely near traffic zones.
Acute respiratory distress potential. High-risk groups stay indoors.
Toxic concentrations. Immediate health precautions required.
Carbon Monoxide levels are clean and non-toxic.
Acceptable; may affect those with specific heart conditions.
Reduced oxygen delivery to the heart may occur.
Headaches and fatigue may occur in urban canyons.
Significant cardiovascular distress. Mental confusion possible.
Lethal potential. Immediate risk of neurological collapse.
Optimal air quality with no sulfur detection.
Acceptable air; minor odors possible near industry.
Bronchoconstriction possible for active asthmatics.
Respiratory distress likely for the wider population.
Significant wheezing and shortness of breath likely.
Extreme respiratory danger. Significant life risk.