Can I remove asbestos myself in Australia?

Rules on DIY asbestos removal vary by state and can change. In some states, limited removal of bonded (non-friable) asbestos may be permitted under strict safety conditions, but licensed removal is required for friable asbestos and often for larger areas. Check SafeWork in your state for current rules before handling any suspected asbestos material. When in doubt, use a licensed asbestos removalist.

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By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: 1 March 2026 · How we research

Asbestos explained in detail

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in building materials in the past due to its heat resistance and strength. However, asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems, such as rare cancers. Asbestos is still present in older structures in Australia. The Australian government has implemented strict regulations and guidelines for the safe removal and disposal of asbestos. It is vital to be aware of the potential presence of asbestos in older buildings and to take proper precautions if found.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about asbestos

Homes built before 1990 in Australia may contain asbestos. Common locations include eaves, cladding (fibro), bathroom/laundry walls, fencing, and roofing. The only way to confirm is through professional testing by a licensed assessor.

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Helpful Guides

Adelaide Build Cost Report 2026

Per-sqm rates, site costs & ranges

Home Builders Adelaide

How to choose the right builder

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Grants, costs & complete process

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The complete Adelaide guide

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Provisional SumsWhat builders don't always tell you

EavesWhy they matter in Australian homes

Brick VeneerAustralia's most common construction

Practical CompletionWhat happens at handover

Build TimelinesHow long does it take to build?

Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

National Construction Code (NCC)

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Australian Standards (AS / AS-NZS)

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

Housing Industry Association (HIA)

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia (MBA)

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

By state & territory

South AustraliaSA

Consumer and Business Services (CBS)

VictoriaVIC

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

New South WalesNSW

NSW Building Commission (within Department of Customer Service)

QueenslandQLD

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)

Western AustraliaWA

Building and Energy (within Dept of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)

TasmaniaTAS

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Australian Capital TerritoryACT

Access Canberra (Construction Occupations Registrar)

Northern TerritoryNT

Building Practitioners Board / NT Worksafe (Building)

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.