Asbestos regulations exist to protect people—workers, property owners, and the broader public—from the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Yet despite decades of awareness and legal enforcement, recent inspections across Australia continue to reveal non-compliance, putting lives at risk and costing businesses thousands in fines, delays, and reputational damage.

For businesses and contractors operating in Brisbane and across Queensland, the message is clear: asbestos compliance isn’t optional—it’s a legal obligation and a moral imperative. In this blog, we’ll explore the real-world consequences of ignoring asbestos regulations and how your organisation can avoid these pitfalls with the right training, management plans, and support from industry experts like Quality Building Management (QBM).

Why Asbestos Compliance Still Matters in 2025

Although the use of asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, the material still exists in many buildings constructed before that time. It can be found in roofing, insulation, flooring, cement products, and more. When disturbed—through renovation, demolition, or even improper cleaning—asbestos fibres can become airborne, which leads to serious health issues including:

• Mesothelioma

• Asbestosis

• Lung cancer

• Chronic respiratory problems

Given the dangers, the law requires strict control measures for identifying, managing, and removing asbestos safely. Unfortunately, many businesses still fail to follow these rules, often due to a lack of awareness, poor training, or attempts to cut corners.

Recent Cases: Real Consequences for Non-Compliance

In recent inspections across Queensland and beyond, several breaches of asbestos legislation were uncovered, leading to severe penalties. Some of the most common violations include:

• Starting demolition work without a proper asbestos clearance inspection

• Failing to remove asbestos safely using approved techniques

• Not supplying an Asbestos Removal Control Plan to the client

• Allowing workers to be exposed to airborne asbestos fibres

• Inadequate or outdated training for removalists and supervisors

Penalties from these breaches included:

• Suspension of a licensed asbestos removalist for three months

• On-the-spot fines exceeding $2,000

• Site shutdowns and work stoppages that delayed entire projects

In many of these situations, the penalties—and the risks—could have been avoided entirely with effective asbestos management and ongoing training.

The Legal Requirements for Asbestos Management in Australia

Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) laws across Australia, including Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, set out strict requirements for handling asbestos. These include:

• Asbestos Registers: All buildings built before 31 December 2003 must have an asbestos register if asbestos has been identified or is likely to be present.

• Asbestos Management Plans: Required for workplaces with asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), detailing how the asbestos will be managed.

• Licensing Requirements: Only licensed asbestos removalists may handle certain types of asbestos, especially friable asbestos (which crumbles easily and poses a higher risk).

• Air Monitoring and Clearance Inspections: Mandatory during and after asbestos removal to ensure the site is safe before reoccupation.

Failing to meet any of these requirements can lead to legal action and prosecution, not to mention exposing workers and building occupants to serious long-term health risks.

How QBM Helps Keep Your Business Compliant

At Quality Building Management (QBM), we specialise in helping Brisbane property owners, managers, and contractors maintain full asbestos compliance—from initial inspections through to management plans and post-removal clearance.

Here’s how we can support your team:

• Asbestos Inspections & Audits

We carry out thorough asbestos inspections for commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Our team identifies the presence, location, and condition of asbestos materials so you can take the right next steps.

• Asbestos Registers & Management Plans

We create up-to-date asbestos registers and management plans that comply with WHS regulations. These documents are essential not only for legal compliance but also for the safety of anyone working on or around your property.

• Clearance Inspections

Before demolition or renovation work begins—and after asbestos removal—we conduct certified clearance inspections to ensure the site is safe for workers and the public.

• Asbestos Awareness & Safety Training

We offer training programs to ensure your team understands their obligations under WHS laws, knows how to safely handle or avoid disturbing asbestos, and is prepared to respond correctly in the field.

The Cost of Non-Compliance vs. Prevention

It’s tempting to overlook asbestos compliance—especially if you’re operating on tight timelines or budgets—but the reality is that prevention costs far less than penalties. A simple misstep like skipping an asbestos inspection or failing to submit the right documentation can halt an entire project, cost thousands in fines, and risk your company’s license or reputation.

Here’s a comparison:

By partnering with professionals like QBM, you avoid costly mistakes and gain peace of mind knowing your business is doing the right thing.

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with QBM

In 2025, the standard for workplace health and safety is higher than ever—and rightly so. Asbestos compliance isn’t just about following the law; it’s about protecting your team, your clients, and your future.

If you’re managing a property or overseeing a construction or demolition project in Brisbane or surrounding areas, don’t leave asbestos management to chance. Let QBM help you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and keep your team safe.

Contact us today to book an asbestos inspection or consultation.