Residents in parts of Port Kembla can access free testing and clean-up (remediation) of possible contamination from the former copper smelter.
This program aims to reduce health risks if contamination is found to be present in soil, indoor dust or roof dust at residential properties potentially affected by airborne emissions from historic smelting activities.
Who is running this program?
This program is provided by Port Kembla Copper Pty Ltd and PKC Properties Pty Ltd (PKC) under an enforceable undertaking agreed with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
PKC are providing investigation and remediation at no cost to residents who choose to take part in the program.
You can use the links below to learn more.
What homes are included in the program?
Properties included in this program are mostly within 800 metres of the former smelter site. This is called the Investigation Area. You can see a small map of the approximate area below, or visit the PKC website to view a larger map.
The Investigation Area may be expanded as the program continues.
Do I have to take part?
No. Participation is this program is voluntary and free for residents who choose to take part.
However, if you choose not to take part in the program, there may be implications for your property that you should be aware of. For example, you may be responsible for the cost of remediating any smelter-related contamination identified at your property once the program has ended. You should also read the section below about Planning Certificates when deciding whether to participate.
Please note that if you are not the property owner (for example, if you are renting), you will need to get the owner's consent before the property can be tested.
Planning Certificates for affected properties
A Planning Certificate is an official document about your property. It includes information about the planning rules and any restrictions that apply to your land, as well as any known contamination.
Planning Certificates are often needed for property transactions like selling, buying or development applications.
In line with legislation, Planning Certificates for all properties included in the PKC enforceable undertaking now have a notation that Council has information about contamination for the property.
If you decide to take part in the program, additional notations will be added to your Planning Certificate. This will include information about what is found during the investigation; if and how the site has been remediated as a result; and how any remaining contamination is to be managed. This will provide a clear and accurate record to owners, future owners, developers and consent authorities.
More information
To find out if your home is eligible for this program, please contact PKC directly:
- Phone 1800 297 051 or
- Email info@militaryroadsitefuture.com
Ongoing EPA soil testing for Port Kembla residents
The EPA offers free soil testing for heavy metals to residents on private land in Port Kembla. This includes properties in Port Kembla that are outside the PKC program's current Investigation Area.
This soil testing is offered to check heavy metal levels in surface soils, understand the potential exposure risk and help keep the community informed. The EPA does not sample roof dust.
To learn more or request soil testing, visit the EPA website or email info@epa.nsw.gov.au