After facilitating the removal of loose-fill asbestos insulation from more than 1000 properties, the ACT Government’s Asbestos Response Taskforce will close at the end of this month.
The task force has been in place for eight years – established in 2014 when the government committed to buying back and demolishing all homes contaminated by the loose-fill, which has come to be known as “Mr Fluffy”.
In that time, seven previously unknown homes have been identified, with one being uncovered as late as January this year. That particular home had been initially inspected as part of the original Commonwealth Government asbestos removal program, which was in place between 1989 and 1993.
According to government records, there are about 20 privately owned properties that are now owned by the government and are either in the process of, or have been slated for, demolition.
The Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction Rebecca Vassarotti said the government was committed to eradicating loose-fill asbestos.
She said that while issues with asbestos remain, they were “different in size and scope”, and explained that it was time now to align the project with governmental business as usual.
“We’re almost at the point where we have completely eradicated loose-fill asbestos in the community, although we acknowledge more homes may be discovered,” she said.
“We do really want to reassure the community there will be no change in terms of the support and assistance provided to householders.
“There is still work to be done… particularly around how we mark this part of our history and how we ensure we have ongoing support for households that are still managing asbestos.”
The government has committed to removing all loose-fill asbestos properties by 2025.