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Schools Close Amid Asbestos Scare from Decorative Sand

11/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Sixteen public schools in Canberra and one in Brisbane are closed due to potential asbestos exposure from decorative sand containing chrysotile.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recalled several sand products after testing revealed asbestos.
ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry stated that while the exposure risk is low, safety is a priority.
Mancel College in Brisbane closed its campus after finding the sand product, but Queensland officials do not plan widespread school closures.
New South Wales and Victoria report no closures, citing low health risks.

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Story summary

Sixteen public schools in Canberra and one in Brisbane are closed due to potential asbestos exposure from decorative sand containing chrysotile.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recalled several sand products after testing revealed asbestos.
ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry stated that while the exposure risk is low, safety is a priority.
Mancel College in Brisbane closed its campus after finding the sand product, but Queensland officials do not plan widespread school closures.
New South Wales and Victoria report no closures, citing low health risks.