Asbestos in the Northern Territory

Due to the age of many buildings and facilities in the Northern Territory, materials containing asbestos are present in many locations throughout the Northern Territory.

Cyclone Tracy virtually devastated Darwin on Christmas Eve 1974. With the devastation that occurred debris littered the city. To this day, small pieces of asbestos cement sheeting can be found buried under the surface of the ground throughout Darwin. These small pieces of asbestos are exposed from time to time through natural weathering.

These small pieces of asbestos are not dangerous unless crumbled to release the fibres.

Other general information

What is asbestos?
Health risks
Your safety
Personal protective equipment
Legislation
Common locations