Australia’s mould crisis: The suburbs most at risk

Australia’s homes are facing a silent, insidious enemy that could be wiping thousands off their value and posing serious health risks: mould.

Following an unusually wet winter and with a La Niña watch now issued, experts are warning that properties across the country are ripe for infestation, turning dream homes into potential money pits.

New data from Airtasker reveals a startling 12 per cent surge in mould removal tasks over the past three weeks, a clear indicator of the growing problem. But the question on every homeowner’s lips is: where are you most at risk?

Airtasker has undertaken a comprehensive analysis, scrutinising internal data on mould removal jobs, Google search trends, climate factors like humidity, rainfall, and temperature, and even dwelling conditions, to pinpoint Australia’s “mouldiest” regions.

The findings are a wake-up call for property owners.

Sydney’s eastern suburbs crowned Australia’s mould capital

Topping the list with a staggering ‘mouldiness score’ of 61.32 out of 100 are Sydney’s exclusive Eastern Suburbs.

This affluent area, known for its harbour views and high property prices, is now also notorious for its hidden fungal problem. Several other Sydney districts feature prominently in the top 10, including the City and Inner South, North Sydney and Hornsby, the Northern Beaches, and the Inner West.

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The 10 mouldiest regions in Australia. Source: Airtasker

CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW YOUR STATE COMPARES

The grim reality of this mould crisis was recently laid bare in a shocking case from Coogee, right in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs.

A 73-year-old retiree, who had been living in his public housing unit since 2016, found himself trapped in a nightmare.

Black mould, described as “crawling across the walls and carpets like something out of a horror flick,” had consumed his home.

His friend and carer, Grace Thomas, revealed the man was “broken, and had given up,” resorting to placing tarps and rugs on the floor to avoid the “squelch underneath his feet” from the pervasive dampness.

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A mould infested Coogee home in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Picture: Supplied

The white toilet sits in stark contrast to the mould infested walls. Picture: Supplied

Despite repeated reports to the housing authority between 2019 and 2024, the problem persisted, with only temporary fixes offered. I

t wasn’t until the man’s electricity was cut due to “water in the walls” that the full horror was exposed.

An independent mould specialist report in October last year confirmed the environment was “not safe for human living.”

It’s not just Sydney feeling the damp squeeze

Queensland’s tropical and subtropical havens, Cairns, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast, along with northern New South Wales’ Richmond-Tweed region, also rank among the nation’s top 10 mould hotspots.

Anthony Johnson, certified mould remediation specialist on Airtasker, said mould is notoriously difficult to get rid of once it takes hold in the home.

Even after scrubbing surfaces clean, spores can linger in the air or deep within walls, floors, and fabrics.

If the underlying moisture problem isn’t fixed, the mould often returns making it a persistent and costly problem for households in these high-risk regions.

“Tackle mould the right way,” he said.

“For small patches, supermarket mould sprays and a dry cloth can usually take care of mould on walls and corners. But for larger infestations, or when mould appears on porous materials like couches, mattresses or other furniture, it’s best to call in a professional.

“Different surfaces require different treatments, and a professional can ensure the mould is removed properly while preventing it from returning.

“This is important because, if not effectively treated, mould can release spores that may lead to health issues when inhaled – ranging from allergies and respiratory problems to neurological symptoms such as headaches and brain fog.”

Living in a mould infested home can lead to a number of health problems.

Mr Johnson also advises to keep humidity under control.

“Mould thrives in warm, damp environments, so keeping humidity under control is key,” he said.

“Ideally, indoor humidity should sit at around 60 per cent – but it must stay below 70 per cent, as once levels hit 80 per cent or more, mould can grow rapidly.

“To reduce humidity in the home, simple steps like installing a dehumidifier, fixing leaks promptly, drying clothes outside, using airconditioning, and improving airflow can make a big difference.”

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