Labor wants action on asbestos imports

The federal opposition wants the Turnbull government to take urgent action to stop asbestos being imported into Australia.

Labor says at least eight shipments have been stopped in recent times, but it is unclear how many have not been detected.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten and employment spokesman Brendan O'Connor say given the grave consequences of asbestos being contained in building products, without the knowledge of the builder or occupant, the current penalty of $170,000 is inadequate.