This week, Advocacy Australia’s Asbestos Education Committee is reminding Australians that asbestos remains one of Australia’s most significant and ongoing public health challenges.

More than 4,000 Australians lose their lives each year to asbestos-related diseases – around three times the national road toll – with cases continuing to rise.

According to the Australian Mesothelioma Registry Report (2025), diagnoses of malignant mesothelioma have increased year-on-year for both men and women, with experts predicting this trend will continue due to the ongoing disturbance of legacy asbestos in the built environment.

The data highlights a critical shift:

• 94% of respondents reported non-occupational exposure
• 89% were exposed in non-occupational settings, including:
  • 51% during major home renovations
  • 38% while living in homes undergoing renovations
  • 13% from living in fibro homes (1947–1987)
  • 21% through secondary exposure from household members

With 1 in 3 Australian homes containing asbestos, and 6.4 million tonnes of asbestos-containing materials still present nationally, the risk remains widespread – particularly in homes built or renovated before 1990 and commercial or non-residential properties built before 2004.

Beyond the human cost, the economic impact is substantial. Asbestos-related diseases are estimated to cost the Australian economy more than $500 million annually in healthcare and lost productivity, with long-term projections reaching into the tens of billions.

This underscores a critical point: Prevention through awareness and education is the only proven way to reduce exposure and save lives.

If you are renovating, maintaining or managing a property:

Stop and assess before disturbing materials

Seek expert advice

Always engage licensed professionals for asbestos testing and removal

Respect Asbestos – because when it comes to asbestos, it’s not worth the risk. To access practical, evidence-based guidance and resources, visit asbestosawareness.com.au.

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