The fluoride status of Forbes's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Council lists fluoridation as a treatment step at the Forbes plant.
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: 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.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Forbes's water. Council lists fluoridation as a treatment step at the Forbes plant.
Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.
Look up Forbes 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.
No. Boiling leaves the fluoride behind and slightly concentrates it. Reverse osmosis, distillation and activated alumina filters remove fluoride. Read more.