A legal amendment championed by one Australian Greens MP could make it easier for firefighters who develop serious diseases due to their work to access compensation.
The bill – which would put Australia in line with similar policies adopted by the United States and Canada – has been co-sponsored by Labour’s Maria Vamvakinou and the coalition’s Russell Broadbent.
Speaking to reporters in Canberra, Adam Bandt asserted that firefighters have an increased risk of cancer after only five years on the job, the AAP reported.
This is in spite of the fact that the majority of firefighters start their careers in good health.
“There are over 70,000 synthetic (plastic) substances in the home and when they burn, they produce a toxic, cancer-causing cocktail,” he asserted.
“After five years, they have double the risk of contracting leukaemia … and male firefighters have ten times the risk of testicular cancer,” Bandt added.
He made his remarks in the company of dozens of firefighters from all around Australia, including several cancer survivors.
Firefighters and their families will find the changes could minimise stress, according to Peter Mashall, a spokesman for the United Firefighters Union.
He commented: “Say if you attend 10,000 fires, which one of them was the one that caused the cancer?”
Mr Marshall added that the bill will look after those who protect Australians and ensure they get the compensation they deserve.
New South Wales workers – including firefighters – who are injured on the job may be entitled to compensation. This can come in the form of lump sum compensation, as well as medical or rehabilitation expenses.
Payments can also be made for pain and suffering, particularly if you have suffered an injury on the job that has led to a permanent impairment.
Compensation for legal costs and economic loss – including loss of wages or benefits – can also be arranged in some cases.
A no win no fee lawyer can assess your case and determine if you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to choose a legal representative who specialises in personal injury law.
Personal injury lawyers are well-versed in New South Wales’ workers compensation scheme and can use this knowledge to work on your behalf, ensuring you get compensation when it is deserved.
Many also have access to a dedicated medical team, which can help to provide any necessary evidence of your injuries and ensure you are repaid for any medical expenses you have incurred as a result of your injury.
