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AIOH Submission – Asbestos Framework Review
The Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to Safe Work Australia’s Asbestos Framework Review. The AIOH supports the objective of strengthening Australia’s asbestos regulatory framework to better control risk and support the prioritised removal of asbestos containing materials (ACM) in line with the objectives of the Asbestos National Strategic Plan.
Australia continues to manage a significant legacy of asbestos in the built environment, and many ACM are now deteriorating due to age and environmental exposure. While the current WHS asbestos framework provides a strong foundation for managing asbestos risks, the AIOH considers that improvements are required to strengthen risk control, improve regulatory clarity and support proactive removal of higher risk materials.
A key priority is shifting the regulatory emphasis from long-term in situ management toward elimination of asbestos hazards where reasonably practicable. This includes clearer regulatory triggers and expectations for removal, particularly where ACM are deteriorating, accessible, or likely to be disturbed.
The AIOH has identified several areas where the framework can be strengthened. These include improving the quality and purpose of asbestos surveys and registers, requiring targeted identification prior to demolition and refurbishment, and ensuring asbestos management plans actively drive risk-based removal.
Association number: A0017462L ABN: 50 423 289 752 Approved by Council: 20 April 2026 Prepared by: AIOH Public Policy Sub-Committee Date: 20 April 2026
Acknowledgements
The AIOH Council acknowledges the work of members who contributed to thissubmission from the Public Policy Sub-Committee in addition to members with expertise in asbestos
