Condensation and mould in Australian homes

Since 2002, the Australian building regulations have required increasing levels of insulation and building sealing. The focus of these regulations has been to reduce energy consumption associated with the use of heating and cooling appliances, and by default, reduce Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. However, this singular focus has allowed building regulations to develop which have promoted the design and construction of new buildings that allow moisture to form and accumulate and support the growth of mould on interior and interstitial surfaces. Since 2010, the team at the University of Tasmania have been recommending regulatory change, with the first significant success in 2019. This paper will discuss the Australian experience, our research focuses and our hopes for the future.