No. 74

$750,000 ALLOCATED FOR REMOVAL OF ASBESTOS 

The Stanhope Government has provided $750,000 in this year’s Budget toward improving the management of asbestos, and supporting compliance with new asbestos regulations for non‑residential buildings – including government-owned buildings.

Minister for Industrial Relations, Andrew Barr, said the funding continues support for the new asbestos safety regimes recommended by the Asbestos Taskforce.

The 2006-07 asbestos package provides:

•	$400,000 to the Department of Territory and Municipal Services for removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials in government properties used for community purposes.

•	$150,000 to the Department of Education and Training for the development of asbestos management plans at all schools.

•	$200,000 to the Chief Minister’s Department to support the implementation of the new non-residential regulations.

“The ACT has a framework in place for the safe management of asbestos in our community,” Mr Barr said.

“This additional funding is a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to managing its own properties safely and to supporting the community to comply with the new laws.”