The Australian Government has launched a campaign reminding home occupiers and tradespeople to Think Twice About Asbestos and urging them to 'do things the right way' by ensuring the proper and lawful disposal of asbestos.
An estimated 4,000 Australians die annually from asbestos-related diseases, which is nearly four times the annual road toll.
Contributing to this, is the estimated 6,000 tonnes of asbestos that are illegally disposed in Australia every year. These actions put communities at risk and costs around $11.2 million each year to remediate.
A survey of 1,506 home improvers commissioned by the Asbestos Safety Eradication Agency in 2021, also revealed that over a third of those who have encountered asbestos during a DIY project or renovation admitted to illegal and dangerous disposal – mostly in their own or a neighbour's household bin.
The illegal disposal of asbestos from smaller-scale domestic construction and demolition puts people at risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.
"Asbestos causes cancer and if not disposed of properly, it puts workers, and the community's health at risk. It is an issue that has serious and far-reaching consequences, costing taxpayers millions each year in environmental remediation and long-term health costs," Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency CEO Justine Ross said.
"This is why we are asking all Australians to do things the right way when it comes to asbestos disposal."
Across Australia, asbestos is in 1 in 3 homes as well as public and commercial buildings.
"The people at greatest risk of exposure are those that work on older buildings and infrastructure where asbestos-containing materials are present. However, asbestos can also be found in unexpected places such as in the household garden, garage or storage areas. Disposing of it responsibly, no matter how small the amount, is the right thing to do."
Illegal asbestos disposal is a crime. There are strict laws relating to illegal asbestos disposal and heavy fines apply. This includes illegal disposal of asbestos such as in kerbside or skip bins.
All asbestos waste must be properly disposed of at a licensed facility.
Most facilities have strict safety procedures that people will need to follow carefully, to ensure asbestos waste is accepted. This includes ensuring it is double-wrapped in 200-micron thick plastic, sealed and labelled for disposal. It is also important to call the facility ahead of time to discuss disposal procedures and arrange a drop-off time.
It is not recommended that you handle, remove, or dispose of asbestos yourself. It is easier, safer and often cheaper to get a professional to do the job for you. They will usually include the cost of disposing the asbestos waste legally with the cost of removal.
You can find a licensed asbestos removalist on your state or territory's WorkSafe or SafeWork website, and your nearest licensed disposal facility at www.asbestossafety.gov.au/who-contact/search-disposal-facilities
