The AMWU has expressed outrage at the decision by the New South Wales Supreme Court to overturn bans and fines against former directors of James Hardie today.

AMWU National President, Paul Bastian, said:

“Today’s ruling is a slap in the face for the 20 000 victims and their families who James Hardie attempted to leave without compensation.

“The gap between what is immoral and what is illegal could not be more stark.

“Two things must come out of today’s events:

“One, James Hardie must take responsibility for its actions and apologise to families and victims.

“Two, the government must review corporate law and make changes to the law to make this conduct illegal and punishable.”