Written by: Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer, 04 Sep 2012

Master Builders Australia has given its support to the Government’s announcement of a national approach to asbestos management.

Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, the Honourable Bill Shorten MP, announced today the formation of the Office of Asbestos Safety, which will develop a strategic plan for asbestos management by 1 July 2013.

Chief Executive of Master Builders Australia, Wilhelm Harnisch, said the creation of a national agency is an important step in the right direction.

“Master Builders supports activity to limit the impact of asbestos and prevent asbestos related diseases. The legacy stemming from the high use of asbestos in Australia needs to be addressed in a safe and co-ordinated fashion.

“It is important the new agency continues to engage with the industry, as well as clients and consumers, to educate about the prevalence of asbestos in Australian buildings and what to do if you suspect asbestos in your building.

“Master Builders looks forward to working with the agency. It is important that the new agency actively engage with industry in the development of the strategic plan.

“The safety of the community and the individuals who are either directly or indirectly involved in the removal of the asbestos must remain the priority. We cannot risk creating new hazards by hastily trying to remove asbestos from buildings,” Mr Harnisch concluded.