Lismore City Council is urging residents to act against the illegal dumping of asbestos – a problem that the organisation says has surged since the 2022 natural disaster.
The call comes as National Asbestos Awareness Week, from 25 November to 1 December 2024, raises awareness of the ongoing dangers of asbestos across Australia.
Council Regulatory Services Officer, Stuart Thomson said the Council is investigating a significant case of asbestos dumping on Frank Street, South Lismore.
“It is one of two illegal dumping sites, totalling about 25 tonnes of asbestos, under investigation. These illegal activities pose serious health risks and cost ratepayers significant money to address,” he said.
“The Frank Street incident is particularly concerning, and we are asking anyone who has information about recent bathroom renovations to come forward immediately.”
He said Council spends significant resources investigating, collecting and safely disposing of illegally dumped asbestos to protect the environment and community.
Currently, residents within the Lismore LGA pay $560 per tonne to dispose of asbestos at the Lismore Recycling & Recovery facility, while those outside the LGA pay $600.
Mr Thomson said there is a common misunderstanding about fees for dumping asbestos at the facility.
“To put the cost into perspective, a kitchen, on average, would contain no more than 100kg of asbestos, which will cost a minimum of $60,” he said.
Asbestos remains a hidden hazard in millions of Australian homes, particularly those built before 1990, poising both a health and environmental threat.
Mayor, Steve Krieg said asbestos was a deadly threat, and the rise in illegal dumping was alarming.
“This week is a reminder to handle asbestos responsibly. There’s no excuse for endangering others through unsafe practices,” the Mayor said.
Mr Thomson said Council was stepping up its efforts to combat illegal asbestos dumping.
“The risks of asbestos exposure, even at the smallest levels, are fatal. Council has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal disposal, and we will investigate and prosecute offenders to the full extent of the law,” he said.
“When taking asbestos to the waste facility, it must be wrapped in heavy-duty black plastic, sealed with tape, and placed into hazardous material bags.”
Individuals face fines of up to $15,000 for a first offence, with corporations fined up to $30,000. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties. Maximum penalties can reach $1 million for individuals and $4 million for corporations.
Lismore council on the asbestos warpath
