The fluoride status of Kowanyama's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
Naturally high fluoride. The only Indigenous council area with fluoride.
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.
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.
Fluoride isn't added, but it occurs naturally in Kowanyama's water. Naturally high fluoride. The only Indigenous council area with fluoride.
Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Look up Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire'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.