OPENAIR Victoria: Community Led Air Quality Network

The Challenge

As in other Australian cities and towns, communities in the inner west of Melbourne are concerned about poor air quality. Councils representing those communities aim to develop evidence based policy and engagement using air quality measurement data.  They however, lack capabilities in designing air quality monitoring networks, deploying sensors and interpreting air quality measurement data.

The Solution

The Community Led Air Quality Network Victoria initiative was inspired by NSSN’s award winning OPENAIR project. The methodology developed for the OPENAIR councils is being used by City of Melbourne and Marybynong councils in the inner west of Melbourne.  Both seek to better understand and address localised transport related air quality issues.  This understanding starts with measuring air quality in areas of concern.  The project is helping councils to design and implement air quality monitoring strategies.  They can then develop evidence based policies, interventions and community engagement programs.

They initiative is led by RMIT, funded by the Victorian Government with support from NSSN, the University of Canberra, Asthma Australia, and the Healthy Environments and Lives network.

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