Australia and New Zealand Expand Recalls of Coloured Play Sand After Asbestos Found

Overview

• Australia's ACCC recalled the MIKI Sand Art Set (model codes 8369 and 8445) sold from July 24, 2023 to November 20, 2025 after tests detected tremolite-type asbestos.
• New Zealand's MBIE added Rainbow Sand Art Toy (about 800 units) and Craft Sand 380g (about 500 units) to a series of recalls of coloured sand sold through discount retailers.
• Retailer lists and product codes were published to help consumers identify affected items, and authorities advised stopping use immediately, containing the products safely, and seeking refunds.
• Tasmanian officials said schools and childcare centres that underwent specialist cleaning and air monitoring have been cleared to reopen, with testing showing no airborne risk.
• MBIE said it is working with retailers to trace supply chains and determine the sand’s origin, and experts urged caution with imported children’s products given limited pre-sale testing.