The fluoride status of Cobar's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Not fluoridated since 2019. The new plant's dosing capacity has never been used.
In a state where only the Health Secretary can approve stopping fluoridation, Dubbo's supply went close to eight years without it. The fix is now months behind schedule.
Tweed went nine months without it. Bowral has had none since July 2025, Mudgee since 2020, Nyngan since 2015. Broken Hill is dosed on paper but barely registers. No council voted for any of this. Here's the list.
Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.
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.
No. Fluoride is not added to Cobar's water. Not fluoridated since 2019. The new plant's dosing capacity has never been used.
Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.
Look up Cobar Shire'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.