Summer DIY warning: Asbestos dangers still hiding in NSW homes
A major statewide campaign is rolling out across New South Wales over summer to the end of April 2026 to sound the alarm on the serious and ongoing dangers of asbestos in homes and buildings.
Timed to coincide with National Asbestos Awareness Week, held annually in late November, the campaign urges the community to stop, think and plan before starting any renovation or repair work to avoid dangerous and potentially deadly asbestos exposure.
Asbestos remains present in millions of Australian homes, with one in three houses nationwide containing asbestos somewhere. Around four thousand Australians die each year from asbestos related diseases, which is approximately more than three times the national road toll.
Many people still underestimate the risks of disturbing asbestos during common home projects, especially in older homes where asbestos may be hidden in walls, ceilings, bathrooms, laundries, flooring or external cladding.
NSW EPA Chief Executive Tony Chappel said the campaign aims to empower people with the knowledge they need to stay safe.
“Asbestos is still all around us, and far too many people underestimate how easy it is to disturb it during routine DIY jobs,” Mr Chappel said.
“No renovation is worth risking your health. If you think it might be asbestos, treat it like it is. Call a licensed asbestos professional before you pick up a tool.”
“Every year thousands of Australians lose their lives to asbestos related diseases. We can prevent future harm by making asbestos safety second nature for everyone in NSW.”
The campaign reinforces simple, practical steps:
• If you think it could be asbestos, assume that it is
• Plan ahead before starting any project or repairs
• Contact a licensed asbestos professional for advice, testing, removal or safe management
National Asbestos Awareness Week provides a timely reminder that asbestos safety is not just a tradesperson issue and that we are all responsible for asbestos safety. It affects everyone in the community, and simple precautions can prevent lifelong and potentially fatal health impacts.
For more information on asbestos safety, visit www.asbestos.nsw.gov.au