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Is there fluoride in Geelong water?

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

Fluoride added
Yes. Fluoride is added to Geelong's water.

Fluoridated.

Barwon upgraded its Wurdee Boluc, Moorabool and Colac fluoridation systems in 2021-22 and met its 0.8 mg/L rolling target at all plants in 2023-24.

Water supplier
Barwon Water
State
Victoria
Measured fluoride
0.72 to 0.79 mg/L across Geelong localities (2023-24)
History
Fluoridated since 2009
Water source
Moorabool and Wurdee Boluc WTPs (Barwon Water)
Source
Barwon Water report 2023-24
Local context

Geelong compared with nearby supplies

Timeline

Geelong fluoride history

  1. 22 Jun 2009Dosing introduced progressively under a state health direction.
What it means for you

Living with fluoridated water in Geelong

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.

Who decides

How fluoride is decided in Victoria

Law: Health (Fluoridation) Act 1973

Who decides: State government directs water corporations.

Coverage: about 90% of residents (2024). First fluoridated: Bacchus Marsh, 1962.

Nearby

Fluoride in nearby towns

Common questions

Geelong fluoride FAQ

What is the fluoride level in Geelong water?

0.72 to 0.79 mg/L across Geelong localities (2023-24), according to Barwon Water report 2023-24. Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.

When did Geelong start fluoridating?

Fluoridated since 2009.

Does Geelong tap water have fluoride?

Yes. Fluoride is added to Geelong's water. Fluoridated.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Geelong?

State government directs water corporations.

How can I check the fluoride level in Geelong?

Look up Barwon 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.

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.