Swanbank odour issue
It is acknowledged that odour affects the community amenity and liveability. The available evidence suggests that emissions from sites around Swanbank present a relatively low risk to health for people living nearby.
Air quality and health
Some individuals may be more susceptible due to underlying medical conditions or general health status, and strong and noxious smells may cause significant physical symptoms in some people.
Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) can affect the respiratory system (lungs and throat), irritate the eyes and cause headaches. While air quality monitoring shows levels of H2S in the air in the Swanbank area are not harmful to health, some residents are reporting issues such as headaches, nausea, watery eyes, nasal congestion, irritated throat, coughing or wheezing, especially when they have allergies, asthma, or other chronic lung problems.
Some people, such as those with underlying health conditions, may experience these side effects at levels of air contamination below the health guidelines. There are no known long-term impacts of low-level exposure to H2S on health.
Mental health
For some people, knowing their community is affected by odour may increase stress and worry, and people living in communities affected by environmental issues such as odour, may be more likely to experience psychological distress.
Individuals can access mental health support through various face-to-face, digital and enquiry services. Visit mental health and wellbeing for more information on mental health support.
Help and more information
Queensland Health continues to work with the Department of Environment and Science, Ipswich City Council and local healthcare providers to review community level health information from residents to understand more about the issue. Learn more about the Swanbank and New Chum odour investigations.
People with symptoms are encouraged to visit their GP, who will be in the best position to assess symptoms and health concerns. Residents can also call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) 24/7 for confidential advice from a registered nurse.