Asbestos

Most homes and/or buildings renovated or constructed before the mid-1980s will most likely contain some form of asbestos.

Asbestos is not restricted to fibro homes. It can also be found:

  • in brick, weatherboard or cladded homes
  • in bathrooms, kitchens, laundries, garages and ceilings
  • behind tiles and under carpet or lino
  • in brakes, clutches and gaskets of cars.

Asbestos in home building materials does not generally pose a health risk unless the material is broken, deteriorating or disturbed.

If this happens it can produce dust containing asbestos fibres. Breathing in this dust can cause many medical conditions, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

It is important for you to be aware of asbestos and its risks and how to safely manage it, as without this knowledge you may be putting yourself and your family at risk.

The Asbestos Victoria website is regarded as the portal of truth in Victoria. There is information for homeowners, renovators, employees and employers. The website also features a number of fact sheets which are available in a number of languages. 

Information about dealing with asbestos is also available from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), WorkSafe Victoria and the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency.

If you are concerned about asbestos in your home or on your property, or the unsafe removal of asbestos, contact our Health unit on (03) 5422 0333.

Unsafe removal of asbestos by a builder or contractor should be reported to WorkSafe Victoria.

Back to top