The fluoride status of Atherton's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Never fluoridated. A dosing plant was built under the 2008 mandate but council decided in July 2012 not to switch it on.
Atherton, Kuranda and Malanda all had fluoride plants built under the 2008 mandate. In July 2012 Tablelands council resolved not to commission them because of the cost.
Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.
Law: Water Fluoridation Act 2008 (amended 2012)
Who decides: Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Coverage: about 72% of residents. First fluoridated: Mandated 2008.
Never fluoridated (plant built, never switched on).
No. Fluoride is not added to Atherton's water. Never fluoridated. A dosing plant was built under the 2008 mandate but council decided in July 2012 not to switch it on.
Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Look up Tablelands Regional's annual drinking water quality report, which lists fluoride in mg/L by supply zone. You can also ask the utility for monthly readings.
No. Boiling leaves the fluoride behind and slightly concentrates it. Reverse osmosis, distillation and activated alumina filters remove fluoride. Read more.