On the Lance Creek system with Wonthaggi, fluoridated since 2012.
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: Health (Fluoridation) Act 1973
Who decides: State government directs water corporations.
Coverage: about 90% of residents (2024). First fluoridated: Bacchus Marsh, 1962.
The Lance Creek fluoride system was permanently shut in September 2024, so water is only partly fluoridated (about 0.48 mg/L in 2024-25) through blended Melbourne Water. A new sodium fluoride system is due in 2026-27.
Yes. Fluoride is added to Inverloch's water. On the Lance Creek system with Wonthaggi, fluoridated since 2012.
State government directs water corporations.
Look up South Gippsland 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.