The fluoride status of Cairns's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Stopped on 15 March 2013 after a council decision on 30 January 2013. In December 2024 council voted 6-3 not to reintroduce it. Australia's largest urban centre without fluoride.
Council decided to stop on 30 January 2013, with one councillor against. On 11 December 2024 it voted 6-3 not to reintroduce fluoride, citing a $14m capital cost.
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.
Stopped 15 March 2013.
No. Fluoride is not added to Cairns's water. Stopped on 15 March 2013 after a council decision on 30 January 2013. In December 2024 council voted 6-3 not to reintroduce it. Australia's largest urban centre without fluoride.
Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Look up Cairns 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.