Workplace Relations Minister, Bill Shorten, has described asbestos as being one of the worst industrial menaces. In particular, Australian citizens seem to have the highest rates of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos is, and has been for many years, a threat to the health of many Australian citizens. It is of particular danger to construction workers and tradespeople.
Legislation was introduced by the Australia Parliament on 20 Wednesday 2013 in an effort to prevent even more Australians from being exposed to asbestos. Bill Shorten expects roughly another 30,000 to 40,000 Australians will be diagnosed with mesothelioma or some other type of asbestos-related disease. According to Mr Shorten, this legislation makes Australia the first nation to proactively take steps towards eliminating asbestos-related diseases.
The development of this legislation will involve the co-operation between the Workplace Relations Minister and government counterparts, as well as industry partners. The ultimately aim is to develop a strategic plan that raises awareness regarding asbestos, asbestos management and the safe disposal of it. Through this plan, the government is hoping to eradicate this problem from the local, state and national community.
In Australia mesothelioma compensation and asbestosis compensation is available to those who unfortunately do contract mesothelioma. State Governments such as NSW and Victoria have legislation that assists those who regrettably suffer from mesothelioma, or other asbestos related diseases, and wish to obtain mesothelioma compensation. Mesothelioma compensation, asbestos compensation and asbestosis compensation are claims brought about by people who have worked with asbestos and who suffer from mesothelioma.
