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Is there fluoride in Lismore water?

The fluoride status of Lismore'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 Lismore's water.

Rous Water began dosing in September 2015 after a NSW Health direction. Excludes Nimbin.

Water supplier
Rous County Council
State
New South Wales
Target dose if added
0.6-1.1 mg/L
Source
Council and state health data
Local context

Lismore compared with nearby supplies

In the news

Lismore in our reporting

The Byron exception: how one shire stayed fluoride-free while its neighbours were dosed

Lismore and Ballina were directed to fluoridate in 2015. Byron Shire and Nimbin were not. A look at the Northern Rivers' long fight over the tap.

Timeline

Lismore fluoride history

  1. Sep 2015Rous Water begins dosing after a NSW Health direction.
What it means for you

Living with fluoridated water in Lismore

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 New South Wales

Law: Fluoridation of Public Water Supplies Act 1957

Who decides: Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.

Coverage: about 93% of residents (2017). First fluoridated: Yass, 1956.

Nearby

Fluoride in nearby towns

ClunesFluoride added · 15 kmCorakiFluoride added · 20 kmCasinoFluoride added · 23 kmNimbinNo fluoride added · 24 kmBallinaFluoride added · 28 kmKyogleFluoride added · 35 km
Common questions

Lismore fluoride FAQ

Does Lismore tap water have fluoride?

Yes. Fluoride is added to Lismore's water. Rous Water began dosing in September 2015 after a NSW Health direction. Excludes Nimbin.

Who decides whether fluoride is added in Lismore?

Councils apply, NSW Health approves. Only the Health Secretary can approve stopping.

How can I check the fluoride level in Lismore?

Look up Rous County 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.

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.