If you own, manage, or plan to work on a building, it’s essential to understand what an asbestos audit involves — especially if the property was built before the 1990s. In simple terms, asbestos audits are highly detailed asbestos inspections that help identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
Whether you’re maintaining an existing building or preparing for renovations or demolition, the type of audit you need will depend on how the property is being used. In Australia, there are two main types of asbestos audits: Division 5 and Division 6.
Division 5 Asbestos Audit (Standard Visual Inspection)
A Division 5 Asbestos Audit is the standard type of audit required for existing buildings in regular use. It is a non-intrusive visual inspection that helps identify any suspected ACMs that are visible or easily accessible.
This audit is typically required for:
- Ongoing building management
- Workplace safety compliance
- Creating or updating an Asbestos Register
- Developing an Asbestos Management Plan
Businesses and property managers must complete a Division 5 audit to comply with asbestos law and Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations.
Division 6 Asbestos Audit (Renovation or Demolition Audit)
A Division 6 Asbestos Audit is more intrusive and comprehensive. It is specifically designed to uncover hidden asbestos within the structure of a building — behind walls, under floors, inside ceilings, or within building materials.
This type of audit is legally required when:
Demolishing all or part of a structure
Renovating or refurbishing a building
Performing construction works that may disturb building materials
Because ACMs can often be concealed, Division 6 audits involve physically accessing or removing parts of the building to locate any hidden asbestos safely. These audits are essential for protecting workers, ensuring safe project planning, and preventing asbestos exposure during high-risk activities.
Why Asbestos Audits Matter
Both Division 5 and Division 6 asbestos audits play a critical role in:
Preventing exposure to harmful asbestos fibres
Meeting legal requirements under Australian asbestos law
Protecting the health of workers, occupants, and contractors
Avoiding costly project delays due to unexpected asbestos discoveries
Failing to conduct the correct type of audit before building works can result in serious health risks, legal penalties, and expensive remediation costs.
Professional Asbestos Audits with Global Asbestos Audits
At Global Asbestos Audits, we specialise in both Division 5 and Division 6 asbestos audits. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process — from initial inspection to reporting and compliance.
We deliver:
Thorough visual and intrusive asbestos audits
Certified Asbestos Registers and Reports
Compliance advice with all national asbestos laws
Fast turnaround for construction and renovation timelines
Not Sure Which Audit You Need?
Contact Global Asbestos Audits today and speak with one of our asbestos specialists. We’ll help you determine the proper audit for your property and ensure you stay compliant, safe, and informed.