Silica Dust Diseases Compensation
No win, no fee* on all compensation claims
Learn moreCompensation for silica dust diseases
If you’ve been diagnosed with silicosis, lung cancer, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an autoimmune condition, or another silica-related disease, you may be entitled to compensation.
Our experienced silica dust disease lawyers will guide you through the legal process, making sure your claim is handled effectively. We take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on your health.
Strict time limits can apply
Some States and Territories of Australia have strict time limits which apply to lodging workers’ compensation and/or court claims.
Don’t delay, talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.
Australia’s trusted compensation lawyers
Speak with a senior lawyer for free. We’ll review your claim, explain your rights, and outline your options: no cost, no obligation. From the moment you contact us, we handle the process with compassion and professionalism so you can focus on your health.
Free consultation about your entitlements
Speak with a senior lawyer for free. We’ll review your claim, explain your rights, and outline your options—no cost, no obligation.
No Win, No Fee
You only pay if we win your case. No hidden fees. No upfront costs. Just clear and simple legal support.
We can come to you
Too unwell to travel? We’ll meet you at home or in hospital. Our team makes the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
What diseases can be caused by silica dust exposure?
- Silicosis – A progressive and incurable lung disease where silica dust scars the lungs, making it harder to breathe.
- Lung cancer – Long-term exposure to silica dust has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, particularly for workers in mining, construction, and manufacturing.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) & Emphysema – Silica dust can damage the lungs and airways, leading to chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and long-term breathing difficulties.
- Progressive Massive Fibrosis (PMF) – A severe and advanced form of silicosis, where large areas of lung tissue become scarred, further reducing lung function. Symptoms of PMF often occur earlier than those of silicosis.
- Silica-Induced Autoimmune Disease – Silica exposure has been linked to autoimmune conditions such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
How to make a Silica Dust Compensation Claim
At Turner Freeman Lawyers, we understand how stressful it can be to deal with legal matters when you’re facing a serious illness. That’s why we make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
Contact us
Call 13 43 63 or fill out our online form. Let us know about your diagnosis, and we’ll connect you with a lawyer who specialises in silica dust claims.
Speak with an experienced lawyer
One of our senior lawyers will reach out to discuss your case. If you can’t travel, we’ll arrange a home or hospital visit.
We gather the evidence
We collect everything needed to support your claim, medical records, work history, and other key documents, so you don’t have to worry about the details.
Understand your compensation options
Once we confirm your diagnosis, we’ll explain what you’re entitled to claim and what the process involves.
We prepare and lodge your claim
If you decide to go ahead, we handle all the paperwork and ensure your claim moves forward. If your health is deteriorating, we can fast-track your claim to speed up the process.
Most compensation claims are settled before court trial
Most claims settle before trial, but if needed, we’ll fight for you in court. You’ll be supported and kept up to date every step of the way.
Experienced lawyers who put you first
What is silica dust?
Silica is a natural mineral and can be found in rock, sand, stone, gravel, and clay. The most common form is quartz.
Exposure to silica dust can lead to serious health conditions such as silicosis, lung cancer, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma, and more.
What activities expose you to silica?
Activities that can expose you to silica include:
- Cutting and drilling engineered stone products, such as Caesarstone
- Concrete cutting and jack hammering
- Masonry
- Cutting brick
- Sandblasting
- Manufacturing of glass, ceramics, brick, concrete, tile, metal or machinery
- Construction work
It is highly recommended that if your occupation requires you to be exposed to silica dust, you get regular health check-ups.
Jobs with high silica exposure
- Stonemasons & benchtop fabricators – Cutting, polishing, and installing engineered stone creates extremely high levels of silica dust.
- Construction & demolition workers – Jackhammering, drilling, and cutting through concrete, bricks, and tiles releases silica dust into the air. Workers handling cement and drywall may also be exposed.
- Miners & quarry workers – Drilling, blasting, crushing, and transporting rock and stone produces fine silica dust, which can remain in the air for long periods.
- Tunnel workers & sandblasters – Workers in underground tunnels or those using high-pressure sandblasting equipment could be exposed to silica dust in confined spaces.
- Glass, brick, tile, and ceramics manufacturing – These industries involve raw silica materials, and workers could be exposed during the production process.
- Metalworkers & foundry workers – Moulding, casting, and grinding metal components can release silica dust, especially in foundries and metal fabrication plants.
Compensation for workers exposed to silica dust
Your compensation entitlements may include a workers compensation claim, as well as a common law, or otherwise known as a court claim.
Workers’ Compensation Claim
An accepted workers’ compensation claim can include payment of medical and out-of-pocket costs associated with your silica-related condition, a pension to cover lost wages, and the costs involved with retraining in a different industry.
Court Claim
This is pursued against your employer, their insurer, and/or the manufacturers of the products which negligently exposed you to silica dust.
In a court claim, we seek compensation for the impact your condition has on your life, including but not limited to pain and suffering, your past and future loss of income, and any care and assistance you may need arising as a result of your silicosis condition.
What can compensation cover?
If you’ve been diagnosed with silicosis or another silica-related disease, compensation can help ease financial stress. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to claim:
- Medical expenses – Covers treatment, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost income – Compensation for wages you’ve already lost, and future earnings affected by your illness.
- Lump sum payments – If your condition is severe, you may receive a one-time payout.
- Pain and suffering – If negligence is proven, you may be eligible for further compensation for the impact on your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have a claim for silica dust exposure?
If you have been diagnosed with silicosis or any other silica diseases due to silica exposure at work, you may have a claim. You can contact our trusted silicosis lawyers to help you investigate your claim.
How long does a silica dust disease compensation claim take?
A silicosis claim with Turner Freeman Lawyers will usually take between 6-12 months, however if your health is failing, we may be able to speed up the process.
Can I make a claim if I no longer work in the industry?
Yes. Even if you were exposed years ago and have since changed jobs or retired, you may still be eligible to claim compensation.
What are the symptoms of silicosis?
Common symptoms of silicosis include:
- Shortness of breath
- A persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
It is highly recommended that if your occupation requires you to be exposed to silica dust, you get regular health check-ups.
Talk to our team
Once you complete the form, here’s what happens next:
Schedule an initial chat
We’ll arrange a time that suits you to speak with one of our lawyers. We can even come to your home or hospital.
Have a conversation about what you need help with
During this no-obligation consultation we’ll listen to your situation and provide initial advice.
Receive our offer
After the consultation, we’ll send you our offer. This will clearly outline your options and let you decide if you’d like to move forward.
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