Abbott said yesterday that as workplace minister he began the process to ban the importation and use of chrysotile asbestos and later funded a research centre into asbestos-related diseases. http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/coalition-knew-of-telstra-asbestos-labor/story-fn3dxiwe-1226656709463
That took effect on 31st december 2003.
When did Barry Robson become involved with ADFA ? .... he was appointed President in 2002 and elected as President in 2003 according to the ADFA website.
So you tell me whether his statement is incorrect.