Lead is a naturally occurring metal with a wide variety of uses in manufacturing due to its soft, malleable and corrosion-resistant properties. In Australia, the main sources of lead exposure are from employment involving lead, old paint during home renovations, recreational shooting, hobbies involving lead, and some alternative medicines.

Unlike many other metals lead is not beneficial or necessary for humans, and can be harmful to health. Infants and children are especially vulnerable as lead can impair brain development. Therefore, people should take every opportunity to limit their exposure to lead.