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Is there fluoride in Canberra water?

The fluoride status of Canberra'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 Canberra's water.

Fluoridated since May 1964. Briefly suspended in 1989 during a formal review.

A 1989 private member's bill suspended fluoridation for a few weeks in October 1989. A 1991 amendment made fluoridation permanent and removed a referendum requirement.

Water supplier
ACT Government (Icon Water)
State
Australian Capital Territory
Target dose if added
0.6-1.1 mg/L
History
Fluoridated since 1964
Water source
Icon Water
Source
ACT Hansard, 13 Aug 1991
Local context

Canberra compared with nearby supplies

Timeline

Canberra fluoride history

  1. 1964Canberra and Queanbeyan begin fluoridating.
  2. 1989A private member's bill suspends fluoridation for a few weeks in October.
  3. 1991Amendment makes fluoridation permanent and removes a referendum requirement.
What it means for you

Living with fluoridated water in Canberra

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 Australian Capital Territory

Law: No specific Act

Who decides: ACT Government via Icon Water.

Coverage: about 100% of Canberra supply. First fluoridated: Canberra, 1964.

Nearby

Fluoride in nearby towns

QueanbeyanFluoride added · 12 kmYassFluoride added · 53 kmBraidwoodFluoride added · 63 kmGoulburnFluoride added · 80 kmTumutFluoride added · 83 kmBatlowFluoride added · 93 km
Common questions

Canberra fluoride FAQ

When did Canberra start fluoridating?

Fluoridated since 1964.

Does Canberra tap water have fluoride?

Yes. Fluoride is added to Canberra's water. Fluoridated since May 1964. Briefly suspended in 1989 during a formal review.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Canberra?

ACT Government via Icon Water.

How can I check the fluoride level in Canberra?

Look up ACT Government (Icon 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.

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.