The Asbestos National Strategic Plan (the ANSP) provides a long-term, phased approach to eliminating asbestos-related diseases in Australia through nationally consistent and coordinated actions. It ensures that the Commonwealth, state and territory governments work cooperatively towards a common goal.
- Phase one of the ANSP (2014-2018) established the evidence base to understand the asbestos legacy in our homes, workplaces and the environment.
- Phase two (2019-2023) delivered actions aimed at increasing awareness and supporting more effective management and removal of asbestos materials.
- Phase three (2024-2030) builds on the progress under the previous plans and focuses on the safe, proactive removal of asbestos materials remaining in our built environment.
With approximately 6 million tonnes of ageing asbestos materials remaining in our built environment, the ANSP 2024–2030 is focused on strategies that facilitate safe, proactive removal and disposal, including through enhanced regulatory frameworks and incentive programs.
The second phase of the Asbestos National Strategic Plan applied the knowledge gained during the first phase and contained actions aimed at increasing awareness and supporting the more effective management and removal of asbestos materials.
The National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Management and Awareness 2014–18 established a coordinated national approach for preventing exposure to airborne asbestos fibres in order to eliminate asbestos-related disease in Australia. About the 2014–18 plan.
During phase one of the ANSP all governments worked together conducting research, increasing awareness and developing and disseminating practical information about asbestos.
The 2012 Asbestos Management Review recommended the development of a national strategic plan for improved asbestos awareness and management, and an independent national agency be established to guide the implementation of the plan.