Final five residents who refused to leave asbestos-riddled Outback 'ghost town' where 2000 locals have died are forced out by the government West Australian government bought out remaining five properties in Wittenoom Ex asbestos mining town linked to deaths of 2000 plus workers and residents The 'haunted' town is also a magnet for visitors, including 'ghost town' explorers
By Australian Associated Press
Published: 08:24 GMT, 20 March 2019 | Updated: 08:24 GMT, 20 March 2019
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Stubborn landowners who have refused to leave an asbestos-laden town will have properties seized by the West Australian government.
Five landowners, three of who still live in the mining town Wittenoom, in the Pilbara, will all be paid compensation packages.
Ben Wyatt, the lands minister, confirmed the packages will cost the state government between $2 and $3 million in total.
Former Wittenoom resident David Jones (pictured left) died of asbestos related mesothelioma aged just 48
