The fluoride status of Orange's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Council water supply.
Fluoride is checked daily at the plant and weekly across the network.
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.
Target 0.8 to 1.2 mg/L, according to Orange City Council. Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Orange's water. Council water supply.
Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.
Look up Orange City 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.