The fluoride status of Mackay's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Council voted 6-5 on 28 Sept 2016. Dosing stopped 7 Nov 2016.
Since 2012, council after council has voted to stop. Gympie, Cooktown, Banana and Central Highlands are the latest. Both major parties have left it to local government.
Who adds it, how much, what the evidence says, what critics argue, and where in Australia it isn't added at all.
Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.
Law: Water Fluoridation Act 2008 (amended 2012)
Who decides: Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Coverage: about 72% of residents. First fluoridated: Mandated 2008.
No. Fluoride is not added to Mackay's water. Council voted 6-5 on 28 Sept 2016. Dosing stopped 7 Nov 2016.
Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Look up Mackay Regional 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.