Newly enacted laws improve compensation prospects for Western Australians suffering from dust diseases

Western Australians who have been diagnosed with illnesses resulting from exposure to asbestos or silica will benefit from enhanced access to compensation due to the recent enactment of legislation in the State Parliament.

Key proponents have received the landmark reforms positively, viewing them as a vital measure to ensure that those affected by these pernicious and often deadly diseases are afforded fair and just compensation.

Premier Roger Cook acknowledged that the dangers associated with asbestos-related diseases are widely recognised, as is the historical impact of these diseases on the people of Western Australia.

The Premier stated that the lamentable legacy of asbestos is far from concluded; additionally pointing out that Western Australia is now observing an increase in cases of diseases linked to silica dust exposure.

"Given the special nature of asbestos and silica, in that one exposure event can lead to multiple, different diseases, the usual way of awarding damages on a once-and-for-all basis is inappropriate,” the Premier said.

Check out the complete story here.