Mum exposed to lead as a child now fighting same battle with own children

Baylee Stokes, a 29-year-old Indigenous woman from Broken Hill, is battling the long-term health consequences of childhood lead exposure, a struggle now shared by her own six children. Stokes experiences learning difficulties and developmental delays, common effects of lead poisoning. Her youngest daughter, I'vayah, recorded a blood lead level five times higher than the investigative guideline at just six months old. "I had it through childhood. I know the things that [lead] does to you. I have learning difficulties," Stokes said. "I'm worried about my kids now. I know the long-term [impacts]. I still find it hard. I don't want that for any of my children."

Broken Hill, a mining city with nearly 140 years of continuous lead, silver, and zinc extraction, has widespread lead contamination in its soil and dust. According to the latest report, 35% of children aged one to five, and a disproportionately high 56% of Indigenous children, have blood lead levels above the national health guideline of 5 micrograms per deciliter. While overall numbers have decreased slightly, Indigenous children remain twice as likely to have high levels compared to their non-Indigenous peers.

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It's horrible. I had it through childhood. I know the things that [lead] does to you. I have learning difficulties. I'm worried about my kids now. I know the long-term [impacts]. I still find it hard. I don't want that for any of my children.

In response to the persistent issue, the New South Wales government has committed $37 million over four years. This funding aims to double the number of homes remediated annually, a process involving lead paint removal and grass laying to contain dust. It will also enhance monitoring of emissions from mines and other dust sources. Additionally, the investment will support ongoing blood lead level testing for children and fund education campaigns like the LeadSmart program. "We want kids in Broken Hill to have the same opportunities as kids anywhere else in the country," said State Environment Minister Penny Sharpe, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing the problem.

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We want kids in Broken Hill to have the same opportunities as kids anywhere else in the country.