Steve Whan
Member for Monaro

MEDIA RELEASE

$1 million to support families in Captains Flat tackle lead contamination  
 
The Minns Labor Government will establish a $1 million community fund to help eligible residents in 
Captains Flat, in the Southern Tablelands, carry out voluntary remediation works on their properties 
to reduce exposure to legacy lead contamination. 

The 2026-27 NSW Budget will provide financial assistance to households with surface soil lead 
concentrations above the national health investigation level, by supporting practical works such as 
applying clean topsoil and returfing affected areas to reduce exposure. 

Eligible property owners will be encouraged to remove surface contaminated soil from affected 
areas and transport it to a designated disposal location at a nearby former mine site, where it can be 
safely managed. This funding will assist with the purchase of clean topsoil and turf to reduce 
exposure risks and restore outdoor areas. 

The NSW Environment Protection Authority is also extending its offer of free surface-soil testing for 
Captains Flat locals. This will help property owners better understand contamination levels on their 
land and determine whether remediation is required. 

Further information on eligibility, testing and how to apply for assistance through the community 
fund will be available in the coming months. 

The former Captains Flat mine in the Southern Tablelands operated for many decades before 
closing in 1962. Historical mining activities left contamination in parts of the township and 
surrounding environment, with lead in surface soils remaining a key exposure pathway. 

Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:  

"Captains Flat residents have lived with historic lead contamination for decades. This $1 million 
investment will help them take practical steps to reduce exposure risks on their properties. 
"We're making it easier for households to identify contamination, access expert advice and 
undertake remediation where it’s needed, in order to create safer outdoor spaces for families.” 

Minister for Health Ryan Park said: 

“This funding builds on our ongoing commitment to addressing and reducing lead exposure risks.  
$1 million to support families in Captains Flat tackle lead contamination   
“By supporting remediation works, we’re helping to reduce the risk of exposure, particularly 
for growing families in high-risk areas, before harm occurs.” 

Member for Monaro Steve Whan said:

"I’ve been fighting for the people of Captains Flat to get assistance with lead issues since I was re
elected in 2023.  I was appalled that property owners had been left in a situation where they could 
not build or alter their homes, or even grow veggies in the garden. 
“This funding is a win for the community of Captains Flat and provides crucial financial assistance 
for families impacted by legacy soil contamination. 
“I encourage residents of Captains Flat to take advantage of free surface-soil testing, and to access 
support for remediation work that will reduce the risk of exposure to historic contaminants for their 
families.”