Second review of asbestos compensation laws underway in Tasmania

Second Review of Asbestos Compensation Laws Underway in Tasmania

Tasmania's government has launched a second review of the Asbestos-Related Diseases (Occupational Exposure) Compensation Act 2011. Former Coroner Rod Chandler and compensation policy expert Liz Chandler are conducting the independent assessment.

Why This Review Matters

Tasmania's government conducts an independent review of asbestos compensation laws every five years to ensure the scheme remains fair and effective. This marks the second formal examination since the Act took effect, following an initial review completed in 2016.

For safety professionals across construction, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, this review offers a chance to influence how compensation frameworks address occupational exposure to asbestos-related diseases. Robust compensation laws form a critical part of broader asbestos management planning and workplace safety strategy.

Scope of the Review

WorkSafe Tasmania has outlined several key focus areas for assessors. Findings will determine whether current provisions remain fit for purpose or require adjustment.

• Assessing how well compensation laws meet the Act's original objectives
• Evaluating ongoing viability and sustainability of the compensation scheme
• Reviewing scheme performance, including entitlements, premiums, and coverage
• Determining relevance of recommendations from the 2016 review

According to WorkSafe Tasmania, "the review will assess the performance of the asbestos compensation laws against the objectives of the Act." The authority added that assessors "will also consider the ongoing viability and sustainability of our asbestos compensation scheme, performance of the scheme (in terms of entitlements, premiums and coverage), and ongoing relevance and or currency of recommendations from the first review in 2016."

Industry Implications

Asbestos-related diseases remain a serious concern for industry stakeholders managing legacy building materials and older infrastructure. Strong compensation frameworks support health outcomes for individuals exposed during past work activities, while giving industry clarity on obligations moving forward.

Businesses operating within demolition, construction, and building maintenance industry sectors should monitor outcomes closely, since scheme adjustments can affect premium structures and coverage requirements. Industry bodies often submit feedback during these consultation periods to ensure practical concerns get addressed.

Safety teams working within industry environments where asbestos exposure risk exists should also review internal procedures. Maintaining current asbestos SWMS templates and safety management documentation helps demonstrate due diligence, regardless of how compensation laws evolve.

How to Have Your Say

Submissions must be lodged by 5pm on Friday 8 April 2022. Tasmanian industry stakeholders, health professionals, and affected workers are encouraged to contribute feedback before the deadline closes.

This review process reflects a broader pattern across Australian jurisdictions. Similar consultation efforts, such as the Queensland workers' compensation scheme review and the independent review of Comcare laws, demonstrate ongoing efforts to strengthen compensation frameworks nationwide.

Broader Context on Asbestos Safety

Compensation law reviews sit alongside enforcement activity as key pillars of asbestos safety across Tasmania and other states. WorkSafe authorities have previously flagged concerns regarding asbestos law violations on demolition sites, highlighting why robust compensation and regulatory frameworks must work together.

Businesses seeking to strengthen their compliance position can access comprehensive asbestos safety document templates covering management plans, safe work procedures, and related documentation required under current regulations.

Source: WorkSafe Tasmania website.