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Is there fluoride in Gunnedah water?

The fluoride status of Gunnedah'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 Gunnedah's water.

Voted December 2017. Dosing began 11 March 2024 after a new $8m treatment plant.

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

Gunnedah compared with nearby supplies

In the news

Gunnedah in our reporting

Switched on: the Australian towns that started adding fluoride in 2024-26

While Queensland councils opt out, Western Australia has been quietly expanding. Here's every new fluoridated supply we've found.

Timeline

Gunnedah fluoride history

  1. Dec 2017Council votes to fluoridate.
  2. 11 Mar 2024Dosing begins after a new $8m treatment plant.
What it means for you

Living with fluoridated water in Gunnedah

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 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

TamworthFluoride added · 66 kmQuirindiNo fluoride added · 72 kmNarrabriNaturally occurring · 85 kmCoonabarabranNo fluoride added · 98 kmMurrurundiNo fluoride added · 103 kmCoolahNo fluoride added · 107 km
Common questions

Gunnedah fluoride FAQ

Is Gunnedah's fluoride status changing?

Dosing began on 11 March 2024, six years after the council voted for it.

Does Gunnedah tap water have fluoride?

Yes. Fluoride is added to Gunnedah's water. Voted December 2017. Dosing began 11 March 2024 after a new $8m treatment plant.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Gunnedah?

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

How can I check the fluoride level in Gunnedah?

Look up Gunnedah 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.

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.