Asbestos Awareness Month

Published on 19 November 2025

Access to safe asbestos disposal in the Yarriambiack Shire.

It is important that people understand that asbestos removal can be dangerous, not just to themselves, but others around them. It is also important that any disposal is done under correct conditions at designated locations and not dumped illegally.

Asbestos removal work is best performed by licensed asbestos removalists, who are appropriately trained to perform the removal work safely. If you decide to remove asbestos yourself, review the information at Homeowner removal | asbestos.vic.gov.au before undertaking any work. 

There is also a section on Do’s & Don’ts when working with asbestos at Do's and don'ts for working with asbestos | asbestos.vic.gov.au

The recent issue with coloured sand utilised in schools with children has highlighted the need for vigilance and prompt action when information about asbestos contamination is identified.

The Yarriambiack Shire Council has an asbestos disposal service for householders who need to deal with the disposal of small quantities of asbestos from their home. This service allows for up to 25kg per day per household to be dropped off at council transfer stations at Warracknabeal, Hopetoun and Murtoa.

• Asbestos MUST be double wrapped in 0.2mm polythene sheeting and taped to completely sealed. There are special bags for asbestos available for purchase as well.
• If any Asbestos packaging is found to be wrapped incorrectly the Transfer Station Operator can offer the customer, the opportunity to return with the asbestos wrapped correctly or to make use of the wrapping facilities on site.
• A wrapping table will be set up in a sheltered area, near the receival bin with items to wrap the asbestos correctly and safely.
• These items include:
  • 0.2 mm polythene sheeting
  • Silver duct tape and black marker pen
  • Disposable face masks
  • Disposable gloves
  • Water spray bottle
  • Lined bin for used PPE.

• Customers are to re-wrap the package according to Council instructions.
• Old wrapping is not to be removed; new wrapping should just be completed over the top.
• Used PPE should be placed in lined bin and package place in receival container.

The cost of disposal is $2 per kilogram – weighed at the Transfer Station.

The cost of additional wrapping is $2 per package or $5 for a bag.