69 ACT Schools Close Over Asbestos in Play Sand

Nearly 70 schools in Australia's capital territory closed on Monday after traces of asbestos were detected in colored play sand used for children's sensory activities and crafts, prompting a nationwide recall and heightened safety measures across multiple states.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission issued a recall on November 12 for several brands of the product, including Kadink Sand 1.3kg, Educational Colours Rainbow Sand 1.3kg, and Creatistics Coloured Sand 1kg. These items, manufactured in China and sold between January 2020 and October 2025, were distributed at major retailers such as Officeworks, Kmart, Target, Woolworths, Educating Kids, Modern Teaching Aids, and Zart Art. Laboratory tests revealed the presence of tremolite asbestos, a naturally occurring form of the mineral, in some samples. Asbestos is prohibited in Australia due to its health risks; inhaling its fibers can lead to serious respiratory diseases, including cancers like mesothelioma, over time.

In the Australian Capital Territory, the closures affected 69 schools and preschools on Monday, following initial shutdowns of 15 public schools and partial closures at five others, plus three...