Broken Hill Lead
In July 2025, the Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer (OCSE) was requested by the then acting Secretary of the Premier’s Department to provide advice on minimising the human and environmental impacts of lead contamination in Broken Hill.
A long history of lead mining in Broken Hill has left a legacy of widespread contamination and human exposure. While some progress has been made in reducing environmental lead levels and community exposure, improvements have slowed in recent years. Aboriginal children remain disproportionately affected, with comparatively higher exposure risks.
In preparing the advice, OCSE relied primarily on desktop research and consultation with stakeholders from government, industry, allied health groups, and community organisations. OCSE also visited Broken Hill to gain a firsthand understanding of the issue and discuss concerns directly with local stakeholders.