Free Lung Health Checks Arrive in Newcastle for At-Risk Workers
Newcastle workers will have the opportunity to receive free lung health screenings today as the government's mobile lung bus makes its first stop of the year in the city. The initiative, designed to protect workers from dust-related illnesses, is a crucial part of ongoing efforts to safeguard occupational health in regional areas.
Mobile Clinic Provides Essential Screening Services
The Lung Health Mobile Clinic will be stationed at The Station on Tuesday, January 27, offering comprehensive lung screening checks at no cost. This travelling bus plays a vital role in the early detection and treatment of dust diseases, including asbestosis, silicosis, and mesothelioma. Each check takes approximately 30 minutes and involves a thorough process.
The screening includes:
- Chest x-rays to identify potential issues
- Lung function testing to assess respiratory capacity
- Consultation with a specialist doctor who interprets results
- Referral for a CT scan if further investigation is needed
Government and Community Support for Worker Safety
Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp praised the initiative, highlighting its importance in keeping workers safe and healthy. "By bringing these essential services directly to the communities that need them the most, the icare Lung Bus is helping to protect the health and futures of our workers," Mr Crakanthorp said.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis emphasised that every worker deserves the right to go to work and return home safely. Meanwhile, Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty stressed the significance of mobile lung testing for regional Australians. "Our regional communities remain front and centre when it comes to ensuring early detection and treatment of dust diseases," she stated.
Addressing Dust Disease Risks Across Industries
The lung bus program provides free screening checks to more than 5,000 workers annually in regional New South Wales. In collaboration with SafeWork, icare supports the NSW Silica Worker Register, which helps identify workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica during their careers.
Recent data from SafeWork NSW revealed that as of December 31, 2025, there were 12,214 workers on the register from 597 businesses, with the majority coming from the construction and manufacturing sectors. Notably, almost 3,850 workers were listed in tunnelling-related jobs, underscoring the high-risk nature of certain industries.
Emphasis on Early Detection and Future Visits
icare executive of general insurance and care Sarah Johnson highlighted that early detection is critical for effective treatment of dust-related conditions. Parliamentary Secretary for Work Health and Safety Mark Buttigieg added that the government is committed to bringing lifesaving health checks directly to communities across the state. "These screenings save lives, particularly for regional workers who may otherwise miss out," he remarked.
The lung bus is scheduled to return to the Hunter region later this year, with visits planned for Singleton on April 20 and Newcastle again on June 29 and October 26. Workers can also access free lung screenings at icare's Sydney Kent Street clinic or through local providers in regional areas. To book a free lung health check, individuals can contact icare on 1800 550 027.
