Asbestos compensation for ‘Mr Fluffy’ victims

The Loose-Fill Asbestos Disease Support Scheme

From 1968 to 1978, more than a thousand homes in Canberra were insulated with a deadly legacy ominously known as ‘Mr Fluffy’.

Installed by a company now known as ‘Mr Fluffy’, the material was made up of loose-fill asbestos which was sprayed into the roof cavities of homes. As the asbestos was loose, it lacked a bonding agent – making the asbestos fibres airborne and easily able to migrate into corners and cracks in houses.

When the harmful effects of ‘Mr Fluffy’ insulation were realised, the homes affected were destroyed and the owners were provided compensation for the acquisition of their property by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government. However, there was no financial assistance available to those who contracted asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, as a result of exposure to ‘Mr Fluffy’.

Recognising the urgent need to provide support and relief to those affected, the ACT Government, in conjunction with the Australian Government, initiated the Loose-Fill Asbestos Disease Support Scheme. Administered by the ACT Government, this scheme provides a crucial lifeline for ‘Mr Fluffy’ victims and their families.

Under the scheme, eligible applicants and their families can receive financial support to cover for out-of-pocket medical expenses, loss of earning capacity and other related costs. Additionally, the scheme provides a lump sum payment and support for dependents of eligible participants who have lost their lives to asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma.

This scheme is a testament to the tireless advocacy of individuals like James Wallner his family who lived in a ‘Mr Fluffy’ home and fought tirelessly for the rights of ‘Mr Fluffy’ victims. The scheme is simple and streamlined to ensure comprehensive financial support is provided.

What happens if I am a victim of ‘Mr Fluffy’?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and the exposure may have been as a result of ‘Mr Fluffy’ insulation, our team at Brave Legal may be able to assist.

Our legal team have extensive experience in asbestos compensation law and can provide support and advice following a diagnosis from asbestos exposure. Contact us on 03 9070 9816 to speak to our experienced and compassionate team.

This article has been co-authored by Legal Assistant, Lucy French.