WITH plenty of long weekends on the horizon, some homeowners will be taking on renovations and DIY projects.
However some jobs, like asbestos removal, are better left to the professionals.
The Western Sydney Residential Asbestos Disposal Scheme is designed to help homeowners with the financial cost of non-friable asbestos disposal.
The president of the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, Cr Tony Hadchiti, said some western Sydney councils were offering rebates for a limited time to homeowners looking to dispose of asbestos safely.
"When moving asbestos becomes unavoidable, such as during a renovation, or as weathered sheeting begins to break down, we want to help homeowners take every precaution to dispose of it correctly," he said.
"Hiring a professional is always the safest option and offers piece of mind for families."
Cr Hadchiti said councils should be the first port of call for residents with questions about asbestos and its removal.
"Councils can provide a wealth of information on certified asbestos removalists, testing facilities and disposal centres in the local area."
The program is expected to run until mid-year or until funding is exhausted.
Participating councils: Blacktown, Fairfield, Hawkesbury, The Hills, Holroyd, Liverpool, Parramatta and Penrith.
■ Details: asbestosawareness.com.au.
