Get help and support

Help for people with a claim underway

In many asbestos-related cases there can be rapid progression towards death after initial diagnosis. Different Tribunal provisions apply to prioritise claims so plaintiffs whose life-expectancy is shortest are dealt with more swiftly.

The Tribunal’s Judges often hold plaintiff bedside hearings. These have taken place in a range of locations, days of the week including weekends and times of of both day and night.

We also have a dedicated room on premise at the Tribunal in Sydney that has a hospital-style bed and an oxygen concentrator machine. Please email the Tribunal Registry  or phone 02 9377 5440 to check availability and to book these facilities.

Requests can also be made for evidence to be taken via video link or telephone. This saves the time and cost of getting a witness to come to the courtroom. For further information please see Giving evidence by video or telephone.

You will also find more information about court facilities and services on the following pages:

Urgent claims for the gravely ill

Case types and how they are prioritised 

Interpreters and translators

People with disability

icare

icare is a separate organisation to the Dust Diseases Tribunal.

The Tribunal hears civil matters while icare supports people who have developed a dust disease after being exposed to harmful dust while employed in NSW.

For more information, please view icare.

Support groups

The following organisations help those affected by dust-related diseases and their families.

Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia (ADFA)

ADFA is a not-for-profit organisation that supports people living with asbestos-related diseases as well as their family, carers and friends. Services include counselling and support groups.

Asbestosis & Mesothelioma Association of Australia (AMAA)

AMAA offers assistance, information and guidance to people in northern NSW and Queensland affected and/or concerned about asbestos exposure and related diseases. Volunteers provide support through a phone line, home and hospital visits and monthly support group meetings.

Bernie Banton Foundation

The Bernie Banton Foundation is a not-for-profit advocacy and support organisation. Support services include a helpline and medical and legal referral information for those suffering from asbestos-related diseases and their families.