Introduction
Illegal dumping of asbestos-containing material remains a serious safety, health and legal challenge in NSW. According to SafeWork NSW, inspectors recently uncovered around 60 cubic metres of asbestos‐containing waste dumped on rural land — traced back to an unlicensed demolition contractor. (SafeWork NSW)
The Dangers of Unlicensed Asbestos Removal
When a contractor lacks the correct licence for demolition or asbestos removal, the risk of exposure to hazardous fibres rises dramatically.
Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis—prompting stringent regulation of materials containing asbestos.
Illegal dumping shifts the health risk from worksite to community and environment, increasing clean‐up costs and legal penalties.
Regulatory Responsibilities You Must Know
If you’re working in construction, demolition, renovation or maintenance, you must ensure:
- You verify that any contractor you engage holds the correct licence for asbestos removal or demolition work.
- You consult current guidance from your state safety regulator before starting any demolition or hazardous‐material removal – your licenced asbestos removalist will be able to guide you through the requirements.
- You report suspected unlicensed asbestos removal or illegal dumping of asbestos-containing material via the Speak Up App or by calling the authorities.
Why Asbestos Awareness Training Matters for Your Business
Asbestos Awareness Training ensures your staff:
- Understand what asbestos is, where it is commonly found and how to safely manage or avoid it.
- Are aware of your legal duties and how to engage licensed contractors appropriately.
- Recognise the warning signs of unsafe asbestos handling or disposal (such as illegal dumping).
- Protect the health of workers, clients and the community—and reduce costly compliance or clean-up risks.
At TrainOnline.com.au, our Asbestos Awareness Training is designed with industry in mind:
- Flexible online delivery—learn at your own pace, on your schedule.
- Course content tailored to demolition, construction and maintenance sectors.
- Certificate issued upon completion to aid documentation and compliance.