Is volcanic ash bad for asthmatics?

I am on holiday in Melbourne, Australia (I'm from Perth, Australia), & on the news yesterday they said all flights have been cancelled to & from Melbourne airport today because of the volcanic ash from chille!! I can't believe it's travelled all the way to Australia, that's psycho!!! Anyway, I'm a severe asthmatic & was wondering if it's safe to go outside today? Problem is, if I stay at the hotel all day, it will be a complete waste of 1/6 of my holiday, as I'm only here for a total of 6 days!!