Radon in Australia
Official radon data, regulations and resources
National reference level
200 Bq/m³
Competent authority
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA)
What should you do?
Regardless of the official classification, the only way to know the radon level in a specific building is to measure it. A long-term test (at least 3 months) is recommended. You can either test yourself with passive detectors or hire a certified professional.
Regulations & obligations
Dwellings
Reference level 200 Bq/m³ for homes (ARPANSA recommendation, not legally binding). State/territory adoption varies.
Workplaces
Reference level 1000 Bq/m³ for workplaces (ARPANSA recommendation). Measurement and mitigation recommended if exceeded.
New construction
National Construction Code (NCC 2019) requires radon barriers in soil in certain cases, but does not quantify concentration limits.
Professional services
NATA-Accredited Radioanalytical Laboratories
NATA-accredited laboratories under ISO/IEC 17025 for Rn-222 analysis and environmental radiation testing
Accredited by: NATA
Radon Measurement Service Providers
Companies performing radon testing using PADC plaques and continuous monitors
Radon Mitigation Companies
Building contractors providing radon reduction systems under state/territory licenses
How radon is measured in Australia
Each country has its own official measurement protocol. Here is how radon testing works according to the national guidelines.
Measurement method
Alpha-track detectors or continuous monitors
Minimum duration
At least 3 months (long-term recommended)
Recommended season
May–September (winter, southern hemisphere)
Detector placement
Ground floor rooms, main living and sleeping areas, doors and windows closed normally
Laboratory requirements
NATA-accredited laboratory or ARPANSA-approved service
Reference standard: AS/NZS ISO 11665 · ARPANSA guidelines
How to test for radon yourself
Regardless of where you live, testing for radon is easy and affordable. A long-term measurement with passive detectors is the most reliable way to know your indoor radon level.
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