Lithgow was included among the original 28 NSW LGAs identified as being affected by loose-fill asbestos and eligible for assistance as part of the NSW Government’s Voluntary Purchase and Demolition Program.

After 528 tests in Lithgow, three houses were found to be contaminated.

It is a limited extension for Bathurst, Oberon and Blue Mountains residents as only 100 homes in each LGA will be eligible for the free testing.

Bathurst, Oberon and Blue Mountains are part of 35 additional LGAs announced by the NSW Department of Fair Trading.

Mr Fluffy loose-fill asbestos was used as insulation in NSW homes during the 1960s and 70s and the NSW Government has determined that demolition, comprehensive site remediation and disposal are the best ways to ensure the health and safety of the NSW community.

Homeowners whose properties were built before 1980 have until August 1 this year to register.

This will allow homeowners affected by loose-fill asbestos in these areas to have access to the financial assistance and support available as part of the program.

The NSW Government is proposing new laws to protect future homeowners from unknowingly purchasing a property that contains loose-fill asbestos.

Under these proposed laws, when selling a property, homeowners would be obligated to confirm in the contract of sale if the property: contains loose-fill asbestos; or is free of loose-fill asbestos.

If homeowners do not comply with these laws, they risk significant financial loss and potential legal action.

Find out more at www.loosefillasbestos.nsw.gov.au or by calling Service NSW on 13 77 88.

The 35 LGAs are: Bathurst, Bland, Blayney, Blue Mountains, Cabonne, Conargo, Coolamon, Cootamundra, Corowa, Cowra, Deniliquin, Forbes, Griffith, Gundagai, Harden, Hay, Jerilderie, Junee, Kiama, Lachlan, Leeton, Lockhart, Murray, Murrumbidgee, Oberon, Parkes, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Temora, Tumut, Urana, Weddin, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly, and Wollongong

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