MEDIA ALERT
Asbestos Awareness Week 2009
Monday 23 November – Friday 27 November
During Asbestos Awareness Week, ADSVIC invites the public to learn more about the
dangers of domestic asbestos. It also urges the State Government to promote education
campaigns to warn Victorians that asbestos remains in around 400,000 houses and dwellings
built before 1987.
Every year nearly 800 Australians die from mesothelioma – a deadly cancer caused by
exposure to asbestos fibre. Another 1800 Australians are diagnosed with cancers and
asbestosis, debilitating illnesses.
DIY home renovators are largely unaware that kitchens, bathrooms floors, eaves and garden
sheds contain asbestos as it was used in up to 20 different locations and applications in
suburban homes around the nation. The dust released when cut or sawn is known to have
tragic consequences.
Cancers arising from exposure to the dust will only see the annual death toll increase. With a
40-year incubation period, mesothelioma permits governments to pass the buck and
procrastinate while people are exposed.
The public deserves to be as informed about asbestos as they are about breast cancer, skin
cancer, HIV(AIDS), alcohol abuse and the danger of tobacco. Millions of dollars of public
monies are already spent on health education campaigns. A few dollars per person on asbestos
education now, will save millions in 20 – 40 years time.
Events
Tuesday 24 November at 9.30am
Victorian Trades Hall Council sponsors the conference “Towards a National Blueprint for action on
Asbestos Advocacy”.
Wednesday 25 November at 6.30pm Bella Union Bar Victorian Trades Hall
Matt Peacock and Gideon Haigh, authors of Killer Company (about James Hardie) and Asbestos House
(asbestos in Australia) discuss their work.
Friday 27 November at 10am
ADSVIC’s annual commemoration ceremony - BWM Edge Theatre, Federation Square.
Victorian Governor Professor David de Kretser AC will deliver the keynote address. Secretary
Victorian Branch of the CFMEU, Martin Kingham will also speak while families and friends will give
a touching remembrance of loved ones that highlights the grief, loss and sense of betrayal that is often
felt with this disease.
The Geelong Trade and Labour Council and the Victorian Trade Union combined choirs with Mick
Thomas –formerly of Weddings, Parties, Anything, will also perform songs from Dust; a musical story
of the impact of asbestos on our society. A BBQ on the Yarra Bank will follow the event –all welcome.
For further information: Tim Tolhurst - Executive Officer ADSVIC 0466 113 749
NEWS 
