The Federal Government has announced the formation of the country’s first National Asbestos Exposure Register.

Between the end of the Second World War and 1987, Australia was the world’s most prolific user of the material, with one in three homes being constructed with the material over that period.

The register aims to collect the details of members of the community who think they may have been exposed to the deadly material in a bid to build a functioning record.

“The Government is determined to ensure Australia is a world leader in the safe removal of asbestos containing materials in homes and workplaces,” Minister for Workplace Relations Bill Shorten said.

The register will function under the Office of Asbestos Safety, which will be established from July this year.

The Agency will implement a comprehensive plan for action on asbestos safety and eradication, the National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Management and Awareness.

More information can be found here