$1 MILLION TO CONTINUE VITAL WORK OF 
ACT ASBESTOS TASK FORCE

The 2005-06 ACT Budget provides an additional $1 million to the ACT Asbestos Task Force to allow it to continue important work implementing new Asbestos legislation.

“Following the passage of ground breaking new asbestos laws, the ACT Asbestos Task Force was formed late last year to provide advice to Government and the community on the future management of asbestos in the ACT,” Minister for Industrial Relations, Ms. Katy Gallagher said.

“The Task Force and its team are currently analysing the extent and impact of asbestos in the ACT.  A survey underway of approximately 500 ACT homes and commercial buildings will be an important contributor to research on the extent and condition of materials containing asbestos in ACT premises. Ultimately this knowledge will help reduce future exposures to asbestos fibres,” Ms Gallagher said.

Under the legislation, the Task Force is required to report to the Minister for Industrial Relations on the extent and impact of asbestos in the ACT by 1 August 2005.

“A community awareness program featuring well-known television personality Don Burke is currently running. The new funding will provide for a campaign in 2006 associated with the second stage of the laws.” 

“Asbestos awareness has been on the national agenda for years.  However, the ACT is the only jurisdiction to introduce laws to raise public awareness and help people better manage materials containing asbestos.”  

“Through this allocation of $1 million in extra funding, the ACT Government is continuing to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that ACT residents are fully informed about the safe management of materials containing asbestos,” Ms Gallagher said.
Statement ends.