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Is there fluoride in Melbourne water?

The fluoride status of Melbourne'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 Melbourne's water.

Fluoridated since 1977 under the Health (Fluoridation) Act 1973.

Victorian Health says more than 97% of Victorians drink water with natural or added fluoride, and 90% are on a fluoridated supply.

Water supplier
Melbourne Water retailers
State
Victoria
Measured fluoride
Target about 1 mg/L
History
Fluoridated since 1977
Water source
Melbourne Water
Source
Victorian Department of Health, Sep 2023
Local context

Melbourne compared with nearby supplies

Timeline

Melbourne fluoride history

  1. 1962Bacchus Marsh becomes Victoria's first fluoridated town.
  2. 1977Melbourne begins fluoridating.
What it means for you

Living with fluoridated water in Melbourne

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

Melbourne fluoride FAQ

What is the fluoride level in Melbourne water?

Target about 1 mg/L, according to Victorian Department of Health, Sep 2023. Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.

When did Melbourne start fluoridating?

Fluoridated since 1977.

Does Melbourne tap water have fluoride?

Yes. Fluoride is added to Melbourne's water. Fluoridated since 1977 under the Health (Fluoridation) Act 1973.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Melbourne?

State government directs water corporations.

How can I check the fluoride level in Melbourne?

Look up Melbourne Water retailers'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.