Firefighters who have been exposed to cancer-causing smoke, toxic chemicals and fumes while serving their communities will have better access to compensation.
As part of last month's sweeping workplace reforms which re-introduced multi-employer bargaining, federal parliament also made changes to workplace compensation laws.
The government expanded the list of prescribed cancers to include primary site lung, skin, cervical, ovarian, penile, pancreatic and thyroid cancer and malignant mesothelioma.
The changes mean firefighters who contract these types of cancers are eligible for compensation and can focus on their treatment and recovery.
Burning bushland and buildings expose firefighters to smoke from diesel, plastics and other chemicals which are absorbed by the body even when wearing protective gear.
Firefighters can also be exposed to clouds of asbestos dust when buildings collapse.
Unions have advocated for better treatment for firefighters who have previously faced lengthy claims processes to access compensation.
Employment Minister Tony Burke said workers who risk their lives to save others deserved better.
"Every time a firefighter responds to a call they know the risk but they go out there anyway," Mr Burke said.
"Their sacrifices should be paid back with fair compensation, not with years of battling with the system to get the health care they deserve."
