Homeowners in Greater Newcastle have until 31 August 2018 to register for free testing for loose-fill asbestos insulation.
Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean said he had extended the registration period and thousands of homes were now signed up.
“We’ve had a great response to the program so far. More than 6,600 homeowners in Greater Newcastle have registered, and more than 1,250 properties have already been tested,” Mr Kean said.
“Testing first began when a property in Lake Macquarie was found to contain loose-fill asbestos, but thankfully, no further properties have tested positive in the region so far.
“If you own a pre-1980s residential property in the Greater Newcastle area, I urge you to register for testing. It won’t cost you a cent, and could save your life.”
Mr Kean said properties that test positive would have access to financial assistance, and have the option to sell the property to the NSW Government at market value.
“This program is an example of the Liberal National Government taking swift action, and stepping in to help consumers with their most valuable possession; their home,” Mr Kean said.
The Government has now tested more than 66,800 properties across the state for loose-fill asbestos insulation, with 149 properties identified to contain the product.
Loose-fill asbestos is raw crushed asbestos, which was a popular ceiling insulation in the 1960s and 70s.
The Greater Newcastle area includes the Newcastle City, Lake Macquarie City, Cessnock City, Maitland City and Port Stephens local government areas.
For more information and to register for testing, visit www.loosefillasbestos.nsw.gov.au or call Service NSW on 1300 784 379.
