Holbrook residents will receive an extra $370,000 of funding to help remediate homes affected by loose-fill asbestos.
The NSW Government and Greater Hume Shire Council will contribute $222,000 to homeowners participating in the voluntary purchase and demolition program.
In addition, the NSW Government has announced an extra $4,000 per household – for all NSW residents currently taking part in the $278 million state-wide program – to buy new furniture for their homes. Previously, residents could access $1,000 to replace soft furnishings.
Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation, Matt Kean, said homes within Greater Hume Shire Council were a unique case requiring special attention.
“We know that Holbrook has been hit the hardest with 37 homes testing positive to loose-fill asbestos, which is much higher than other communities across the state,” Mr Kean said.
“I’ve recently visited the area and listened to the concerns of local residents and that’s why we’ve recognised the need for additional financial support.”
The new package – administered by the government in partnership with local council – will provide tailored support to Holbrook residents. Additional costs associated with Holbrook’s unique regional location were raised during the Minister’s recent visit to the area, which are being considered under the additional funding scheme.
“We’re completely committed to ensuring the health and safety of the community by removing dangerous loose-fill asbestos,” Mr Kean said.
“We want to make the transition as easy as possible for affected residents, whether they’re remediating their existing properties or moving to a new home, and we’re confident this additional funding will ease that burden.”
Loose-fill asbestos was used as insulation in NSW homes during the 1960s and 70s. The NSW Government has determined that demolition, comprehensive site remediation, and disposal are the best ways to ensure the health and safety of the NSW community. The loose-fill asbestos insulation task force has had more than 96,400 residents register with the scheme, with more than 70,000 homes eligible for free testing. About 30,000 tests have been completed – to date – as part of the ongoing program. For more information on the program, visit: www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/Tenants_and_home_owners/Loose_fill_asbestos_insulati on.page
