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Asbestosis and Silicosis Compensation in Victoria

If you have been diagnosed with a dust-related illness such as asbestosis or silicosis, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Bastion Legal, we assist clients and their families to claim compensation for asbestos and silica-related diseases. 

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Recognised Diseases

Asbestosis, silicosis, and other dust-related illnesses.

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Entitlements

Common law claims, statutory schemes, workers comp, and superannuation entitlements.

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You Can Claim

Lump sums, medical costs, lost income, care services, and family benefits.

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How We Help

No win, no fee. Strong medical evidence, clear advice, full legal support.

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How can you claim compensaition?

In Victoria, people diagnosed with a dust disease may be entitled to compensation under the common law or via statutory schemes. You may also have entitlements under workers compensation or superannuation insurance depending on your circumstances. 

If you were exposed during the course of your employment, you can usually make a claim against your employer or their insurer. In some cases, you may also have a right to compensation by a civil claim through the courts.

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What are the entitlements?

If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to: 

  • Lump sum compensation for pain and suffering 

  • Compensation for past and future medical expenses 

  • Loss of income or earning capacity 

  • Carer and support services 

  • Travel costs related to treatment 

  • Funeral and dependency benefits for family members in fatal cases 

The amount of compensation available depends on your diagnosis, the impact of the illness, and the nature of your exposure.

FAQ

  • To support your claim, we will help you gather the necessary evidence, which may include: 

    • Medical records and diagnosis reports from respiratory specialists or occupational physicians 

    • Imaging such as chest X-rays or CT scans 

    • Lung function test results 

    • Employment history or witness statements confirming exposure 

    • Superannuation or workers compensation documentation 

    • Expert reports tracing the source and duration of exposure 

    We cover the costs of these reports upfront and work with leading medical experts to ensure your condition is clearly understood and properly presented. 

  • People most at risk of developing asbestos or silica-related disease include those who have worked in: 

    • Construction and demolition 

    • Mining and tunnelling 

    • Stonemasonry and engineered stone fabrication 

    • Asbestos removal and insulation 

    • Shipbuilding and manufacturing 

    • Automotive repair involving asbestos brake linings 

    • Home renovation, particularly involving older homes 

    Many people were unknowingly exposed to harmful dusts decades ago and only develop symptoms many years later. 

  • Silica-Dust Related Diseases and Symptoms 

    Silicosis is caused by inhaling fine crystalline silica dust. Common diseases linked to silica exposure include: 

    • Chronic silicosis 

    • Acute silicosis 

    • Accelerated silicosis (particularly from engineered stone) 

    • Lung cancer 

    • Autoimmune conditions such as scleroderma 

    • Kidney disease 

    Symptoms can include: 

    • Shortness of breath 

    • Persistent dry cough 

    • Fatigue 

    • Chest pain 

    • Frequent respiratory infections 

    • Weight loss 

    Silicosis can be progressive, even after exposure has stopped. 

    Asbestos-Related Diseases and Symptoms 

    Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to a range of serious conditions including: 

    • Asbestosis 

    • Mesothelioma (a form of cancer) 

    • Lung cancer 

    • Pleural plaques or thickening 

    • Diffuse pleural fibrosis 

    Symptoms may include: 

    • Chest pain 

    • Shortness of breath on exertion 

    • Chronic cough 

    • Loss of appetite 

    • Fatigue or night sweats 

    • Swelling of the abdomen (in mesothelioma cases) 

    These diseases can develop decades after initial exposure and often progress over time. 

  • Yes. If you are a dependent or family member of someone who has died due to an asbestos or silica-related illness, you may be entitled to make a claim. This can include spouses, children, or other financial dependents. 

    In some situations, secondary exposure (for example, from washing contaminated clothing) may also give rise to a claim. 

  • You may still be able to claim even if your former employer is no longer in business. We can help you investigate who the employer’s insurer was and whether a claim can be made. 

    We work with medical and investigative experts to trace exposure history and identify all responsible parties. 

How we can help…

We act for individuals diagnosed with asbestosis or silicosis, ensuring they access the compensation and support they are entitled to. These claims require strong medical and occupational evidence, and we work closely with leading specialists to build a compelling case.

All claims are managed on a No Win, No Fee basis, with no upfront costs for medical reports, expert assessments, or investigations.

We provide clear advice on your options, pursue compensation through insurers or relevant schemes, and represent you in court if required. From start to finish, your claim will be handled by an experienced lawyer who will guide you through the process with care and professionalism.


“Very pleased with the professionalism and advice of Dean in helping us get to an excellent settlement outcome…”

We are very pleased with the professionalism and advice of Dean in helping us get to an excellent settlement outcome. Dean was always very knowledgeable, courteous and prompt in his advice and execution, with excellent attention to detail and drafting skills. We rate Dean 5 out of 5 on all scores!

- TL

Contact us

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related or silica-related disease, early legal advice is crucial.  Compensation may be available to support your care and family. 

We are here to guide you through the process with care, empathy, efficiency, and expertise. 

If you are unable to travel, we will gladly accommodate a home or hospital visit at your convenience.