- Civil Liability (Provisional Damages for Dust Diseases) Act 2024 comes into force tomorrow
- Changes to improve access to compensation for dust disease sufferers
- Compensation to reflect evolving situation faced by sufferers and provide certainty
Western Australians diagnosed with diseases caused by the inhalation of asbestos or silica dust now have improved access to fair and just compensation, following the commencement of the Civil Liability (Provisional Damages for Dust Diseases) Act 2024 on 1 December.
This landmark reform addresses longstanding inequities in compensation for those impacted by debilitating and often fatal dust diseases.
It ensures individuals who develop multiple separate illnesses because of inhalation of asbestos or silica dust are no longer bound by the restrictive 'once-and-for-all' rule.
The rule previously prevented them from seeking further damages after an initial award of damages or settlement.
Under the new laws, people suffering from these diseases will have the ability to pursue subsequent damages awards, if they develop new conditions arising from the same exposure.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
These new laws represent a significant improvement in the legal protections available to dust disease sufferers, providing them with greater certainty and access to justice during extraordinarily challenging times.
"These reforms reflect my Government's commitment to delivering fair outcomes for Western Australians impacted by asbestos and silica dust exposure."
Comments attributed to Attorney General John Quigley:
"By enabling people to access compensation that reflects their evolving situation, they and their families are afforded greater security and dignity.
"Key advocates and stakeholders have welcomed these changes as a vital step forward in supporting those suffering from the devastating effects of these insidious diseases."
