When did asbestos stop being used in Australia?

For a material that is now known widely to be extremely hazardous, it seems odd that it was only a few decades ago that it was used for the places we live, work, shop and congregate in a substantial way. By the time it became an illegal material to use, it was already part of many thousands of homes, public buildings and commercial spaces and has even been used in hospitals. To understand more about where asbestos might be present (based on the age of the place you are working on) it’s important to know when it stopped, and when it started, being used in Australia. 

When did asbestos start being used in Australia?

Before the realisation that asbestos was hazardous and potentially fatal, we were one of the highest asbestos users in the world, per capita of population. It was mined in Australia until the mid-1980s, and had been previously imported since 1930. Its broader use began around the 1950s and anything built from this time until it stopped being used is at risk of having asbestos in it – particularly with insulation, vinyl flooring and wall materials, though can also be found in less obvious things, like cars.

When did asbestos stop being used in Australia?

Though there’s evidence to show that asbestos danger warnings existed as early as the 1890s in the UK, Australia imported and then mined the substance for decades, equating to use in about 3000 products nationwide before it was banned. The first legal action taken against asbestos-related disease was successful in the 1980s and the public understanding of its dangers became more widely known. However, Australia didn’t completely ban its use, import or sale until 2003. Typically, any buildings built after 1990 are very unlikely to contain asbestos.

Why it’s important to understand the timeframes of asbestos use

When we’re renovating it is common to look for areas you can handle yourself to keep your budget in tact. However, if you inadvertently release asbestos into the atmosphere by taking on a DIY demolition job to a material with asbestos in it you could be putting yourself and others at great risk, even fatally. By knowing the approximate time frames of asbestos use, you can make a more considered decision about having your property or worksite tested for asbestos before undertaking any works, or have a professional remove and dispose of it under the strict regulations in place.

If you suspect your property has asbestos, please don’t hesitate to call our knowledgeable and skilled team to assess your site and discuss a strategy for removal and disposal.