Found asbestos in your home or workplace? Your first thought is probably about getting rid of it without spending a lot. Trust us, and you’re not the only one thinking this way. Lots of Aussies look for options for low-cost asbestos disposal in Australia every day. But you should know that asbestos isn’t something you can mess around with. It’s seriously dangerous stuff that needs proper handling.
At Asbestos Victoria, we see people make costly mistakes all the time. That’s why we put together this guide. It’ll show you the cheapest legal ways to get rid of asbestos without landing yourself in hot water.
Why You Can’t Just Chuck Asbestos in Your Wheelie Bin
Look, asbestos isn’t your everyday rubbish. This stuff is genuinely nasty. So, when disturbed or removed, without any relevant experience, the fibres get into the air. You can’t see them, but they’re there. Breathe them in, and you’re looking at serious health problems down the track. We’re talking about diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer, stuff that can kill you.
The government knows how dangerous this material is. That’s why they’ve got strict rules about handling it. You can’t just wrap it in a garbage bag and drop it at the local tip. Most tips won’t even take it unless they’re specially set up for asbestos.
What Does the Law Say About Asbestos Disposal?
Right across Australia, there are rules you’ve got to follow. The law says all asbestos waste must be:
- Wrapped twice in thick plastic (200 microns minimum)
- Clearly marked as asbestos waste
- Taken away by licensed removalists (for big jobs or friable asbestos)
- Dumped only at approved waste facilities
In Victoria, it’s illegal to dispose of asbestos anywhere other than ECA-approved disposal sites. That, too, after following all the guidelines.
Your Cheapest Legal Options for Budget Asbestos Waste Removal
Want to keep costs down without breaking the law? Here are the best ways we know for legal asbestos disposal, which are cheapest as well:
Council Waste Disposal Days
Some councils run special days where you can drop off hazardous waste for free or cheap. There’s usually a limit on how much you can bring, and you need to book ahead. Make sure you’ve wrapped and labelled everything properly first.
Here’s what we tell our customers: ring your council and ask when their next asbestos collection day is. It might save you hundreds of dollars.
Take It to an Approved Landfill Yourself
If your asbestos is bonded (not the crumbly, friable type), you might be able to cart it to a licensed tip yourself. These places charge by weight or how much space your waste takes up.
Get an Asbestos Skip Bin
Some bin companies rent out special asbestos-only skips. These bins have special linings and get picked up by professionals. You do the loading, and they handle the rest.
This works well if you’ve got a decent amount of asbestos and want to keep your removal costs down. Just make sure the company is properly licensed.
Share the Cost with Neighbours
Do you have neighbours doing renovations, too? Some removalists offer shared-disposal deals. They collect small jobs from several properties and dispose of everything in one
trip. Everyone saves money this way.
We have simplified the general asbestos waste disposal costs in the table below!
| Method | Costs |
| Council drop-off day | Free or very cheap |
| Licensed landfill drop-off | $50-$150 per 100kg |
| Asbestos skip bin hire | $300-$800 |
| Professional removal and disposal | $30-$150 per square metre |
We always recommend that you check current rates in your area because prices change, and what works in Melbourne can be different in Perth.
How to Keep Your Costs Down (The Legal Way)?
Do Your Own Prep Work
If you’re dealing with bonded asbestos, you might be able to wrap and prepare it yourself. Just follow the guidelines exactly. One mistake here can be expensive.
Shop Around for Quotes
Different removalists charge different rates. Some are cheaper on certain days or in certain areas. Get a few quotes before you decide. What we suggest is that you please look for the experience and the licences rather than just going with the cheapest option.
Book Ahead
Emergency works, of course, cost more. Plan your removal in advance, and you’ll get better rates.
What You Must Never Do?
- Don’t put asbestos in your regular bins. It’s illegal and puts the garbage collectors at risk.
- Don’t break or cut asbestos sheeting. This releases fibres into the air.
- Don’t burn it because it’s neither safe nor legal.
- Don’t dump it somewhere random because it is actually illegal and can cost you random penalties.
Get A Free Quote For Asbestos Removal In Victoria
So, if you are reading here, we know that you really want to know professional asbestos waste disposal options. Since 2008, we have been removing asbestos from all types of buildings, including residential, industrial and commercial ones. You can get your free quote today.
We are here to listen to your concerns as well. To get a free quote, you can call us today at 0487 762 031 or email us at [email protected].