Victims of an asbestos-related disease caused by living in a former Mr Fluffy home are to receive financial support under a newly arranged joint scheme between the ACT and Commonwealth.
Announced by Chief Minister, Andrew Barr, the $16 million Loose-Fill Asbestos Disease Support Scheme is to provide support for medical and health expenses, as well as other costs for Canberrans experiencing the harshest impacts of the Mr Fluffy legacy.
“This Scheme is an important next step in the Government’s response to the legacy of Mr Fluffy,” Mr Barr said.
“The Scheme is designed to provide comprehensive and timely support to enable recipients and their families to receive the treatment and care they need, when they need it most,” he said.
Mr Barr said that in addition to financial support to cover out-of-pocket medical costs, the Scheme made available up to $8,500 per year for family members who were carers and for lump sum payments for dependants.
He said payments were also available for care and household services, home and vehicle modifications and loss of income.
The Chief Minister said that in some circumstances, applicants and their families may receive payments for psychological support services and expenses in relation to funeral costs.
“I want to recognise the advocacy of Mr James Wallner and his family, which led to the establishment of this Scheme,” Mr Barr said.
“Mr Wallner sadly passed away after being diagnosed with mesothelioma last year.”
Mr Barr said the Scheme was now accepting applications and would allow people, or their family dependants, to make claims for diseases diagnosed from January 2014.
Further information on the Scheme can be accessed at this PS News link.
