The Silica National Strategic Plan 2024-30 has been developed in response to the re-emergence of silicosis in Australia. It was endorsed by the Western Australia State Government Cabinet on 4 November 2024, confirming the State Government’s support for the sustained elimination of silicosis and other silica-related diseases in Australia.
The Western Australia Silica Plan 2025–2030 (WA Silica Plan) has been prepared to support WA’s work in support of the Silica National Strategic Plan and aligns with the Silica National Strategic Plan Principles:
- Healthy and safe working environments
All workers in Australia have a fundamental right to a healthy and safe working environment. Such rights are recognised both nationally and internationally. - Coordination
Actions are coordinated across and within all tiers of government to ensure they are effective, targeted, and consistent. - Working in partnership
Governments work together with non-government organisations to extend the reach and impact of our actions. - Robust scientific evidence-base for silica-related disease prevention
Action is evidence-informed, where knowledge exists, focusing on the highest risk. New knowledge is generated to address gaps. - Transparency
Roles and responsibilities are acknowledged, and actions and outcomes are shared and publicly reported.
Targets and indicators
National targets and indicators to support the Silica National Strategic Plan have been developed by the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA) in consultation with stakeholders and WA will report against the nationally agreed targets and indicators.
Western Australia's priorities
- Eliminate silica-related diseases in Australian workplaces
- Priority 1 – Workplace risk reduction
- Priority 2 – Education and awareness
- Support workers and others affected by silica-related diseases
- Priority 3 – Health monitoring, screening, surveillance and support
- Priority 4 – Research and development
- Be an international leader
- Priority 5 – International collaboration