These organisations - the Northern Territory Government, Australian Government (National Indigenous Australians Agency), East Arnhem Regional Council, and the Northern Land Council (NLC) - are sharing this information with both Yolŋu and Balanda communities.

The NT Government, Council, and NLC have been working to locate areas containing asbestos on Elcho Island. This effort aims to develop strategies ensuring the safety of both Yolŋu and Balanda residents from the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, but the risk is significantly lower if you avoid contact with it. Nonetheless, understanding this issue is crucial for safeguarding your family's well-being.

To identify asbestos sites in Galiwin’ku, the NT Government, Council, and NLC enlisted the expertise of Agon Environmental, a specialised organisation in asbestos detection and cleanup. Agon Environmental conducted surveys on Elcho Island and documented the locations where asbestos was found.

The resulting report from Agon Environmental, funded by the NT Government, Council, and NLC, has been shared with the Australian Government as well. This comprehensive report outlines the locations of asbestos on Elcho Island and provides guidance on creating safety plans for Yolŋu and Balanda families. These reports will be soon accessible on the council website.

Asbestos was found on the ground in various places around Elcho Island, believed to originate from old houses constructed with asbestos-containing materials. In the past, before 2009, some workers improperly disposed of asbestos by leaving it on the ground after demolishing old houses, rather than in a secure location. Over time, natural events such as storms and cyclones have dispersed some of this asbestos within the community.

Photo credits: ABC News: Tom Maddocks

In September 2022, workers conducted cleanup operations to remove asbestos from various locations on Elcho Island. The areas that were cleaned up include:

• Clifftops along Mission Beach
• Grass areas around the Church
• Road crossing near the Sport and Rec hall
• Bushland surrounding the oval

Moving forward, workers will continue to monitor and address any asbestos found on the ground.

Workers will soon assess two large old tip sites located outside of town to determine the best approach for removing all asbestos present. It's crucial for people to refrain from dumping rubbish at these sites and to avoid walking or driving through them due to the asbestos hazards.

The map displays areas that have already undergone cleanup and received clearance certificates, as well as new areas slated for cleanup this year. Additional information, including communication materials, will be made available on the website.

If there are concerns about asbestos in community housing, individuals are encouraged to contact Housing at 8987 0533.

For concerns about or sightings of asbestos in the community, East Arnhem Regional Council can be reached at 8986 8916.

These numbers are also available for any questions regarding Asbestos Management.