AQFx: The platform

What we do

We develop and maintain Australia’s national prototype smoke forecasting system. AQFx (the air quality forecasting system) provides six-day ensemble fire weather forecasts, 24–60 hour detailed air pollution forecasts, and next-day prescribed burn smoke forecasts for Victoria and New South Wales. The system is operated by the Bureau of Meteorology in Victoria on behalf of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). In New South Wales, AQFx is operated by the Bureau of Meteorology for the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

Since 2019/20, we have been testing potential extensions to the operational AQFx system with our end-users. Our current focus is to:

  • Improve the underpinning science and near real-time data capabilities to produce robust, accurate, timely and nationally consistent air quality (including smoke and dust) forecasts.
  • Provide these forecasts to Australian Climate Service customers, relevant government agencies, and the public.
  • Equip decision makers in emergency services, environment and health departments with the capabilities and information they need to issue advisory warnings about current and forecast air quality impacts.

Our long-term focus will integrate the prototype AQFx system into the Air Quality Visualisation System, AQVx and the AirRater smartphone app.

How it was developed

The prototype system was developed through a research collaboration between CSIRO, Bureau of Meteorology, the University of Tasmania, the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne and DEECA.

Critical to the successful development of the AQFx system is an engaged network of end users who can help to improve the system over time.  The AQFx team engages with its end users to co-design a system that is both technically robust and easy for them to use. We develop and maintain state-of-the-art communication tools to aid in this objective.

Funding acknowledgement

The AQFx smoke forecasting project is funded by the Australian Climate Service (ACS) and is a collaboration between CSIRO, the Bureau of Meteorology, Code for Australia, University of Tasmania, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney and the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

In 2023, the Australian Climate Service (ACS) provided continued funding for the CSIRO AQFx project.