September 25 2025
The Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI), in partnership with Concord Repatriation General Hospital, has launched a new multidisciplinary team (MDT) service to support doctors, respiratory specialists and other health professional team members across New South Wales.
This free, monthly virtual forum provides structured case reviews and expert input for doctors treating patients with suspected or confirmed occupational and environmental lung diseases—such as silicosis, asbestosis, COPD, autoimmune lung conditions, and other non-malignant dust-related diseases.
Diagnosing occupational lung disease requires integrating exposure histories, imaging and specialist testing—often without access to occupational health expertise. For clinicians outside of metro areas, these challenges are even more pronounced.
The NSW Occupational Respiratory Disease MDT is designed to complement existing interstitial lung disease MDTs. It provides focused support in identifying and managing workplace-related conditions and offers practical guidance for navigating legal and compensation pathways.
By sharing knowledge and improving access to expert advice, the MDT aims to build confidence and consistency in clinical decision-making.
With the National Occupational Respiratory Disease Registry (NORDR) now operational, doctors are legally required to notify confirmed cases of occupational respiratory disease. The MDT can help doctors determine when and how to report cases, offering advice when exposure histories are unclear or diagnoses remain uncertain.
“Occupational lung disease is preventable but sadly, it is a growing crisis in Australia, and frontline health professionals need access to the best tools to support their patients,” said Kim Brislane, CEO of ADDRI. “This new MDT is about giving every doctor and allied health professional – no matter where they are in our state – access to expert advice, structured case review, and clear pathways to care.”
Any NSW-based medical or allied health professional can refer a case for MDT discussion. Participation is free, with meetings held monthly online.
Referral criteria:
Meeting schedule: The first online meeting took place on Friday 13 June 2025, and will be held on the 2nd Friday of each month from 7.30 – 8.30am.
Upcoming meeting dates:
Friday 8 August 2025
Friday 12 September 2025
Friday 10 October 2025
Friday 14 November 2025
Friday 12 December 2025
Location: Microsoft Teams (online)
Referral link: Refer a case now
Enquiries: mdt@addri.org.au | (02) 9767 9859 (Tues/Wed)
Each meeting is supported by a panel of Australia’s leading experts in occupational lung disease:

The MDT is part of ADDRI’s broader response to Australia’s silicosis crisis, delivering practical solutions to support early diagnosis, prevention and care.
It complements the national Silicosis Support Hub—an evidence-based resource helping patients, families and carers navigate their diagnosis, legal rights, and support options.
