The fluoride status of Sydney's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Fluoridated since 1968.
Prospect supplies about 85% of Sydney's drinking water. Its 2025-26 output averaged 0.95 mg/L against a 1.0 mg/L target.
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.
0.96 mg/L typical at tap (April to June 2026), according to Sydney Water, Prospect East Q4 2025-26. Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.
Fluoridated since 1968.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Sydney's water. Fluoridated since 1968.
Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.
Look up Sydney 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.
No. Boiling leaves the fluoride behind and slightly concentrates it. Reverse osmosis, distillation and activated alumina filters remove fluoride. Read more.