The Auspollen Partnership: Update on Implementing a Standardised National Pollen Monitoring Network for Better Management of Allergic Respiratory Health

Grass pollen is the major outdoor trigger of hayfever and asthma globally. The Australian Aerobiology Working Group (ACEAS, 2013) demonstrated through compilation of historical pollen records, regional and seasonal variability in airborne pollen levels across Australasia. Despite the high prevalences, medical and socioeconomic burden of hayfever and asthma, including thunderstorm asthma, Australia was until recently one of few developed countries without a national pollen monitoring program. The AusPollen Partnership sought to establish a standardized pollen monitoring network for Australia.