Asbestos concerns have seen seven Sydney schools forced to respond.

St Luke’s Catholic College and six other schools are undergoing precautionary mulch testing after asbestos was found in mulch at a hospital, a supermarket, and possibly affecting residences earlier this week. 

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) initiated the tests following supply chain investigations, identifying Allambie Heights Public School, International Grammar School, Mt Annan Christian College, North Sydney Public School, Penrith Christian School, and Westmead Christian Grammar School for immediate attention.

While St Luke’s has temporarily shut down, the other schools remain open, albeit with restricted access to specific areas. 

This move is part of a broader response to asbestos findings in three additional locations: St John of God Hospital, a Woolworths in Kellyville, and a Transport for NSW park, all containing bonded asbestos, deemed lower risk than the friable asbestos found at Harmony Park.

EPA's Tony Chappel has mentioned an investigation into the contamination's causes, including potential criminal activities. 

The issue has also led to the cancellation of the Mardi Gras Fair Day event due to asbestos at Victoria Park and triggered wider testing across Sydney CBD parks.

The NSW Government has announced an Asbestos Taskforce to give more resources and support to the EPA.