Every November, Australians unite for National Asbestos Awareness Week as a time to educate, remember, and act to prevent exposure to asbestos.

ADAO proudly stands in solidarity with our partners across Australia to honor lives lost, support those impacted, and promote global asbestos prevention.

Although Australia banned all six forms of asbestos in 2003, “legacy” asbestos remains in millions of homes, schools, and public buildings. Renovations and DIY projects can unknowingly release deadly fibers into the air. The message is simple and urgent: there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Awareness saves lives. Prevention is the only cure.

This year’s national campaign on November 24 – 30 will be led by the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency (ASEA), which focuses on reminding Australians to “Think Twice About Asbestos”: encouraging everyone to check before they renovate, call a licensed professional, and share lifesaving information within their communities.

Throughout the week, ADAO will feature stories from Australians who have bravely shared their experiences through our “Share Your Story” initiative, reinforcing the power of personal narratives to drive prevention and policy.

During the last week of November, ADAO will feature seven Australian “Share Your Stories” each day of the week.

Monday, November 24: Lou’s Story: “I Will Not Die in Vain”

Tuesday, November 25: Barry’s Story: “Nothing Short Of A Miracle”

Wednesday, November 26: Anita’s Story: “Women and Mesothelioma”

Thursday, November 27: Steve’s Story: “Mesothelioma Can’t Take That Away”

Friday, November 28: Mary’s Story: “Put a Smile On”

Saturday, November 29: Gary’s Story: “Faded Away” 

Sunday, November 30: Jim’s Story: “An Enormous Shock”

We honor Australia’s leadership and collaboration in the global effort to end asbestos exposure. Together, through awareness, action, and accountability, we can build a future free from asbestos-related disease.

Together, change is possible.
Linda Reinstein
President & Co-Founder, Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)