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Is there fluoride in Byron Bay water?

The fluoride status of Byron Bay's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.

No fluoride added
No. Fluoride is not added to Byron Bay's water.

Council decided against fluoridation in November 2013. Excluded from the Rous rollout.

Water supplier
Byron Shire Council
State
New South Wales
Target dose if added
0.6-1.1 mg/L
Source
Council and state health data
Local context

Byron Bay compared with nearby supplies

In the news

Byron Bay in our reporting

The Byron exception: how one shire stayed fluoride-free while its neighbours were dosed

Lismore and Ballina were directed to fluoridate in 2015. Byron Shire and Nimbin were not. A look at the Northern Rivers' long fight over the tap.

Timeline

Byron Bay fluoride history

  1. Nov 2013Council decides against fluoridation.
  2. 2015Byron excluded from the Rous rollout to its neighbours.
What it means for you

Looking after teeth in Byron Bay without added fluoride

Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.

Who decides

How fluoride is decided in New South Wales

Law: Fluoridation of Public Water Supplies Act 1957

Who decides: Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.

Coverage: about 93% of residents (2017). First fluoridated: Yass, 1956.

Nearby

Fluoride in nearby towns

MullumbimbyNo fluoride added · 15 kmClunesFluoride added · 22 kmBallinaFluoride added · 26 kmUkiNo fluoride added · 37 kmLismoreFluoride added · 37 kmNimbinNo fluoride added · 38 km
Common questions

Byron Bay fluoride FAQ

Does Byron Bay tap water have fluoride?

No. Fluoride is not added to Byron Bay's water. Council decided against fluoridation in November 2013. Excluded from the Rous rollout.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Byron Bay?

Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.

How can I check the fluoride level in Byron Bay?

Look up Byron Shire Council's annual drinking water quality report, which lists fluoride in mg/L by supply zone. You can also ask the utility for monthly readings.

Does boiling water remove fluoride?

No. Boiling leaves the fluoride behind and slightly concentrates it. Reverse osmosis, distillation and activated alumina filters remove fluoride. Read more.