Fluoridated (2021 state dataset).
The Mitchell system is East Gippsland Water's only fluoridated system, with full compliance reported since 2010.
Health authorities, including the NHMRC, recommend drinking fluoridated tap water to reduce tooth decay. Some residents prefer to reduce their intake, and that's a personal choice.
Law: Health (Fluoridation) Act 1973
Who decides: State government directs water corporations.
Coverage: about 90% of residents (2024). First fluoridated: Bacchus Marsh, 1962.
0.85 mg/L average (2024-25), according to East Gippsland Water report 2024-25. Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.
Fluoridated since 2010.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Bairnsdale's water. Fluoridated (2021 state dataset).
State government directs water corporations.
Look up East Gippsland Water'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.