This is your chance to have your say on how air pollution is regulated in Australia.

The government has released its proposed variation to the national environment protection measure for ambient air quality (NEPM AAQ). This is your chance to have your say on how air pollution is regulated in Australia.

You can read the draft variation and supporting information here. Submissions to the consultation process for the draft variation can be made to the NEPC in writing, or emailed to [email protected].

The NEPM AAQ sets the national goals for air pollution standards. These are then implemented by the states and territories.

The variation primarily relates to setting new standards for PM2.5 pollution.

Environmental Justice Australia has been very critical of the NEPM process, and the fact that the NEPM AAQ is not binding and isn’t delivering  better air quality outcomes for Australians. (Check out our report Clearing the Air for more information).

The public consultation is an opportunity to express your concern that we don’t have national laws to protect air quality. Environmental Justice Australia will be posting a summary of the variation and a guide for submissions on our website shortly.

The closing date for submissions is Friday, 10 October 2014.