For much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used in Australian construction and manufacturing—especially in cement sheeting, piping, roofing, and even automotive parts. It’s estimated that over 6.4 million tonnes of legacy asbestos materials remain in our built environment. Despite a ban in 2003, asbestos continues to pose risks, particularly in infrastructure and housing built before the 1980s.

The agency has put together a video package that highlights the work of the asbestos-related disease support groups across the country to support their Asbestos Support Group Network (ASGN). The video is an important insight into their day-to-day activities including providing awareness sessions and training to apprentices and tradespeople, community awareness and education, home visits to asbestos-related disease sufferers, visiting research institutes, providing healthcare assistance and providing overall support for those that have been diagnosed, their friends and families.

The agency has put together a video package that highlights the work of the asbestos-related disease support groups across the country to support their Asbestos Support Group Network (ASGN). The video is an important insight into their day-to-day activities including providing awareness sessions and training to apprentices and tradespeople, community awareness and education, home visits to asbestos-related disease sufferers, visiting research institutes, providing healthcare assistance and providing overall support for those that have been diagnosed, their friends and families.

Overview of the National Strategic Plan for asbestos awareness and management (NSP) 2019 - 2023.

Overview of the National Strategic Plan for asbestos awareness and management (NSP) 2019 - 2023.

During the first phase of the Asbestos National Strategic Plan, annual progress reports were published which detailed the activities undertaken by state, territory and Australian Government agencies.

A total of 126 activities were reported as completed and over 60 activities continued into the next phase of the ANSP, demonstrating active engagement in the awareness and management of asbestos. While progress was made, the extent of Australia’s harmful asbestos legacy meant that more work was required to secure ongoing effective legacy management.