Asbestos removal costs out of reach for WA families

The Institute for Respiratory Health is calling on the Western Australian Government to take urgent action on asbestos removal and disposal, warning that without immediate steps, the health of thousands of Western Australians will remain at risk.

With National Asbestos Awareness Week running from 25 November to 1 December, the Institute says WA needs to follow the example of other states that already offer financial incentives and waive disposal fees to ensure asbestos is removed safely and affordably.

Melita Markey, spokesperson for the Institute for Respiratory Health, said the cost of asbestos removal, which averages $10,000 per household, is a major barrier for families across WA. “The high cost of removing asbestos leaves many people living with deteriorating materials that can release deadly fibres,” Ms Markey said.

“Some states have stepped up with disposal fee waivers and financial support. It’s time for WA to catch up and provide a clear, coordinated plan to protect its residents.”

Markey emphasised that sharing the cost of removal between householders, government  and industry is essential. “Householders shouldn’t have to shoulder this burden alone. WA needs a statewide system that makes safe removal and disposal affordable and accessible for everyone,” she said.

Asbestos remains a significant threat in WA, where many older homes contain highly toxic blue asbestos, the deadliest form. Though asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, materials like asbestos fences, eaves and roofs are now deteriorating, increasing the risk of fibres becoming airborne.

“Western Australians are living with a ticking time bomb,” Ms Markey said. “We need action now to prevent future generations from inheriting this public health crisis.

“WA has the opportunity to lead by creating a model that protects all households and our community, regardless of income.”

Markey said the Institute is also calling for increased research funding to support people already affected by asbestos-related diseases.

“Research into asbestos-related diseases is critically underfunded, despite the fact that mesothelioma and other illnesses caused by asbestos are some of the deadliest conditions in our state,” Ms Markey said. “We urgently need investment to develop better treatments and improve outcomes for sufferers.”

This National Asbestos Awareness Week, the Institute for Respiratory Health urges all Western Australians to respect the risks, know the facts and seek expert guidance before tackling a project in a home that may contain asbestos.

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