- List of cancers under Presumptive Legislation for firefighters expands from 12 to 20
- Provides protection for personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting the community
The Cook Government is expanding the list of cancers covered under Presumptive Legislation for career and volunteer firefighters, ensuring that personnel can access financial support for treatment and recovery.
Eight additional cancers thyroid, pancreatic, skin, cervical, ovarian, penile, lung and malignant mesothelioma will be specified as presumptive cancers in Regulations, bringing the total number in Western Australia to 20.
Under the new amendments, if a current or retired career or volunteer firefighter is diagnosed with any of these cancers, it is presumed the cancer is related to their duties. This means personnel are relieved from proving the cause of their illness to access compensation.
Protective equipment and training are provided to WA firefighters to reduce the risk exposure to toxins, but not all hazards can be eliminated, including smoke, fuel and other hazardous materials when responding to emergencies.
As stated by Acting Industrial Relations Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The Cook Government intends to include the additional eight cancers as a priority via Regulations, which will ensure Western Australia is consistent with the Commonwealth.
"Firefighters play such an important role in our community and the Cook Government commends the thousands of Western Australians who selflessly assist in protecting our State."
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson
"Firefighting can be a dangerous profession the nature of the job means that our firefighters can be exposed to smoke and other hazardous materials.
"The Cook Government is committed to providing firefighters with the right protective equipment, and making sure they have access to the necessary financial support if they require long-term treatment or recovery.
"We are expanding the list of cancers to ensure there is fair and adequate protection for the brave personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting the community."
