The majority of human exposure to air pollution occurs indoors, where people spend around 90% of their time. Air pollution negatively affects human health and wellbeing, accessibility of spaces and the economy.

Despite decades of effort by many experts, and a large body of evidence about the scale of the problem, indoor air quality (IAQ) has attracted little attention. In Australia, indoor air is not measured or monitored according to scientific best practice – and so, poor indoor air is not managed. There are three main approaches to improving IAQ: controlling pollutants at the source, ventilation and air cleaning. 

This report provides a primer on the scientific evidence base and explores policy pathways to deliver healthier indoor air for everyone. Two clear themes emerge. One, there is a robust and growing body of scientific evidence showing that poor IAQ has a negative impact on health and wellbeing. Two, there are known and available technological and policy solutions to address it.

Policymakers have a range of mechanisms available to improve IAQ in Australia. The options provided in this document offer opportunities for immediate action and long-term strategic planning.

Key recommendations

• Elevating indoor air quality as a national health and infrastructure priority.
• Establishing a multidisciplinary taskforce to provide expert advice on indoor air quality to multiple government departments.
• Developing a national reporting standard for workplace indoor air quality.
• Adopting the World Health Organization's Global air quality guidelines.