22/02/2024
Georges River Council would like to acknowledge that our community are aware of an EPA investigation into asbestos within mulch at a number of locations across Sydney.
Georges River Council takes the health and safety of all our residents, visitors, Georges River workforce and Council staff very seriously.
We wish to assure our community that Georges River Council self-generates the majority of mulch that is used across our parks and open spaces. Where externally sourced mulch is required, Council only uses certified mulch in accordance with the NSW EPA Mulch Order 2016, noting that Council has not purchased any materials from the supplier associated with the EPA’s investigation. Council also documents the use and suppliers of our mulch.
Council does not supply mulch to schools as the Department of Education is responsible for their school grounds mulch.
Historically, asbestos was widely used in building and construction materials in Australia. Many of our staff are trained in asbestos identification and handling. We have measures in place to manage any asbestos we find in public spaces and on Council land.
It’s important our community is aware of the different types of asbestos as it remains commonly found in homes built before the 1990s and commonly used in:
- cement sheeting (fibro)
- drainage and flue pipes
- roofing, guttering and flexible building boards (eg Villaboard, Hardiflex, etc.). Similar cement sheeting products are used today, but are 'asbestos free'
- brakes, clutches and gaskets.
For more information, please visit the Asbestos in NSW website.
Should anyone have questions about the EPA investigation into asbestos in mulch, we encourage them to visit the EPA’s website for more details.
Residents and businesses who are concerned about contamination in mulch they have received or on sold should contact the EPA Environment Line on 131 555 or email info@epa.nsw.gov.au.