Asbestos awareness and disposal

Direct exposure to asbestos or asbestos containing materials (ACMs) can lead to a range of diseases. Asbestos-related diseases are becoming more common in Australia due to exposures during home renovations and maintenance.

If you're a home-owner or renovator, it's important you know how to safely manage asbestos in and around the home.

Where is asbestos typically found?

Asbestos can be found in and around most homes built or renovated before 1987 – whether they're constructed of weatherboard, brick, fibro or have exterior cladding.

Places it's commonly found include:

• kitchens, batherooms and laundries
• under-floor covering
• behind wall and floor tiles
• cement floors
• internal and external walls
• ceilings and eaves
• fences
• extensions to homes
• backyard sheds or garages.

How do I dispose of asbestos in Towong Shire?

Towong Shire Council Resource Recovery Centres, recycling sheds or bins do not accept asbestos or asbestos containing materials (ACM). If you have materials that may contain asbestos:

• Engage a licensed asbestos removalist for testing and/or safe removal and disposal.
• For small household amounts, follow safety directions and locate a domestic asbestos-licensed landfill in Victoria or NSW (call first to confirm requirements).
• Always package, cover and secure materials to prevent dust or contamination during transport.

To keep health risks to a minimum, you should consult trained professionals for removal and disposal of asbestos. You can find a list of asbestos removalists on the Asbestos Victoria website.

Our closest licensed disposal options include:

• Wangaratta (VIC) – Rural City of Wangaratta Council, 5 Coleman Rd, North Wangaratta, (03) 5722 0888
• Albury (NSW) – Albury Waste Management Centre, 565 Mudge St, Lavington, 02 6043 5860