Firefighters in Western Australia who contract certain types of cancer will be able to claim compensation more easily after new laws came into effect.
The legislation drew on studies that show career firefighters are at a higher risk of contracting certain cancers from their exposure to carcinogens in the course of fighting structural and chemical fires.
These include cancer of the brain, bladder, kidney, breast, prostate and oesophagus. It also includes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and leukaemia.
The laws, which came into effect on Wednesday, shift the burden of proof that the cancer was caused by fires from the firefighter to their employer or insurer.
Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the laws recognised the significant contribution firefighters made in protecting life and property.
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"The requirement to prove an occupational link between exposure to carcinogens through firefighting duties and the relevant cancer was difficult," Mr Mischin said.
Similar Commonwealth laws were introduced in 2011, and Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis said the state version would provide peace of mind to firefighters and their families.
"The government will ease the burden placed on firefighters who perform a dangerous and life-saving role for the community," Mr Francis said.
