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ACV/GARDS gets $560K for Gippsland asbestos victims and additional $19.3M for asbestos removal from Victorian Labor government

The Allan Labor government invests $560,000 in Gippsland for asbestos victims through ACV/GARDS. An additional $19.3 million aids asbestos removal in government buildings. Victoria and Queensland lead in banning engineered stone.

By news@gippsland - 9th May 2024 - Back to News

The Allan Labor government is helping victims of asbestos and silica related diseases in Gippsland by investing in community advocacy and support. The Asbestos Council of Victoria/Gippsland Asbestos Related Diseases Support (ACV/GARDS) will receive $560,000 to continue its important work providing direct support to victims of asbestos and silicosis, as well as advocacy and education programs.

Victorian Asbestos Eradication Agency collaborates nationally to eradicate asbestos diseases. Victoria and Queensland lead in banning engineered stone, protecting workers

Asbestos safety investment

In addition to this $560,000 investment, the Labor government is providing $19.3 million to the Victorian Asbestos Eradication Agency to continue ensuring the safe removal and disposal of asbestos in government-owned buildings.

The Victorian Asbestos Eradication Agency will work with the national Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency to eliminate asbestos-related diseases in Australia. As we continue to support victims of asbestos and silicosis, Victoria and Queensland will lead the nation on banning the use of engineered stone from July.

Until the ban takes effect, Victoria's existing laws on exposure to crystalline silica dust and working with engineered stone will continue to protect workers. This is a Budget that stands with Victorian workers and families who are affected by asbestos and silicosis.

Workplace safety investment

Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Danny Pearson said, "Every Victorian deserves a safe workplace that protects them from asbestos and silica-related diseases - that's exactly what this Budget delivers. This investment will help workers in Gippsland, and our nation-leading ban on engineered stone from July will save lives."

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said, "We are standing with Gippsland workers and their families by investing in education, advocacy and support for victims of asbestos and silicosis."

Pictures from Asbestos Council of Victoria/GARDS Inc Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com