TAMWORTH is continuing its call for compensation for the clean-up of a toxic contamination, as the issue gets thrust into the national spotlight.
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Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) has been investigating PFAS (per and poly-fluroalkyl substances) contamination at the airport – an imbroglio which has cost ratepayers more than $147,000 and repeated calls from council for federal assistance.
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The chemical was previously found in foam used in Australian Defence Force fire-fighting drills.
The Environmental Protection Agency said there was a low risk of exposure from Tamworth’s contamination.
ABC’s 4 Corners program reported on PFAS contamination which has severely impacted residents near Newcastle’s Williamtown RAAF base.
The Department of Defence admitted to the program it should have told the public about the chemical contamination three years earlier than it did, and said the clean-up would cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars.
TRC Acting General Manager, Chris Weber, said the investigation into local contamination was ongoing, as was the push for federal compensation.
“Council is treating this matter seriously and has been in regular contact with affected residents, who have been provided with tailored advice to ensure that precautionary measures are undertaken to minimise any further exposure to the chemical,” Mr Weber told The Leader in a written statement.
“Council will continue to proactively seek support for its residents by calling on the federal government to provide funding and expertise in addressing the contamination issue.”