Asbestos removal

Asbestos is in many buildings, but is safe if left undisturbed. We can advise you who to contact if you have concerns.

Council doesn't have a regulatory role in relation to asbestos, but we can advise you on who to contact.

Asbestos is present in many homes and buildings throughout Melbourne and is safe if undisturbed. It only becomes a health risk when it is disturbed through activity such as drilling or cutting during home renovations, which allows asbestos particles to be released into the air where they can be breathed in.

Because Council doesn’t have a regulatory role in relation to asbestos, we’ll usually refer you to another agency that does, such as Worksafe Victoria or the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). However, we encourage all residents to be aware and responsible about asbestos in our community.

Responsible asbestos safety

  • Be asbestos aware – read the Government’s comprehensive guide: Asbestos – A guide for householders.
  • When renovating, don’t attempt asbestos removal yourself. Use a licenced contractor.
  • Never put other people’s health at risk by illegally dumping asbestos.
  • If you suspect asbestos isn’t being removed safely at a worksite, report it to Worksafe.
  • If you see dumped asbestos in Darebin, call our Customer Service on 03 8470 8888.
  • If asbestos is being removed from your home during home renovations, let your neighbours know beforehand and reassure them that it’s being handled safely.

Removal advice

The Victorian Government's Asbestos website is the collective advice from WorkSafe Victoria, the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and the Department of Health. It provides advice and information to help homeowners, tenants, employers and workers understand the risks of asbestos, how to comply with your duties, and resources for managing and removing asbestos in homes and workplaces.

More information

Health Protection team
Phone: 03 8470 8658