The fluoride status of Darwin's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Fluoridated since 1972. One of seven NT locations with added fluoride.
Fluoridating Darwin and six other NT locations costs Power and Water about $1.6 million a year.
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: No Act. 2010 Health policy.
Who decides: Power and Water, by policy (towns over 600 people).
Coverage: about 70% added, plus ~9% natural (2012). First fluoridated: Darwin, 1972.
Fluoridated since 1972.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Darwin's water. Fluoridated since 1972. One of seven NT locations with added fluoride.
Power and Water, by policy (towns over 600 people).
Look up Power and 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.