The fluoride status of Alice Springs's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Natural groundwater fluoride of about 0.5 mg/L. Fluoride was added until early 1989, then stopped because the natural level was considered adequate.
Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Your supply does carry some natural fluoride. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.
7 November 2026: Corrected: fluoride was added until 1989, not never.
Law: No Act. 2010 Health policy.
Who decides: Power and Water, by policy (towns over 600 people).
Coverage: about 70% added, plus ~9% natural (2012). First fluoridated: Darwin, 1972.
About 0.5 mg/L natural (1991 figure), according to NT Parliament, Question 18 (1991). Fluoridated supplies in Australia target 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L, and the health guideline maximum is 1.5 mg/L.
Fluoride added until early 1989.
Fluoride isn't added, but it occurs naturally in Alice Springs's water. Natural groundwater fluoride of about 0.5 mg/L. Fluoride was added until early 1989, then stopped because the natural level was considered adequate.
Power and Water, by policy (towns over 600 people).
Look up Power and 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.