The ACT government is defending its controversial decision to shut down numerous public schools across Canberra, throwing families into disarray as parents were forced into a last-minute scramble to find care for their children.
Government Defends Precautionary Closure
Education Minister Yvette Berry stated that the closure on Friday, November 14, 2025, was a necessary precaution. She expressed hope that schools would be able to reopen by Monday, pending the results of urgent testing and potential remediation work by asbestos experts over the weekend. The decision was triggered by a nationwide recall of three children's sand products by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on Wednesday, November 12.
A survey by the education directorate confirmed that one of the recalled products, Kadink Sand, is used in ACT schools for art and sensory activities. While WorkSafe ACT assessed the risk as low, it informed the directorate of its obligation to eliminate the risk entirely, leading to the shutdown.
Contrasting Responses Cause Confusion
The government's move stands in stark contrast to the approach taken by other educational bodies. Catholic Education in Canberra confirmed it has not closed its schools or early learning centres and is urgently seeking clarification from the ACT government regarding the rationale behind the public school closures.
Furthermore, education departments in New South Wales and Victoria have confirmed they will not be closing schools, citing the low risk. A NSW spokesperson said a safety alert was issued instructing schools to immediately remove the sand products as a precaution.
Rolling Closures and Parental Uncertainty
The situation evolved rapidly throughout the morning. Initially, before 7 am, the government announced nine schools and five preschools would close, with six schools partially closed. This number grew as the day progressed, with more schools being moved to fully closed status and others added to the list. By 10:30 am, 15 public schools across the territory were shut.
Minister Berry did not rule out closing further schools later on Friday, warning parents they may be contacted to pick up their children if new information emerged. She explained the decision was based on a risk assessment framework and a desire to avoid students witnessing experts in hazmat suits on school grounds during the day.
Authorities are conducting extensive testing. Eight air tests from schools have already been returned, with no asbestos detected, but further fibre testing is required. Parents are advised to expect an update from the department on Sunday afternoon or evening regarding whether schools will reopen on Monday.
