The fluoride status of Mareeba's public water supply, who decides, and how to check it yourself. Page last updated 6 November 2026.
One of the few Queensland towns fluoridated before 2008, but dosing stopped after a 2009 audit found the equipment non-compliant.
Without fluoridated water, dental guidelines put more weight on fluoride toothpaste, diet and regular check-ups. Some people prefer fluoride-free options.
7 November 2026: Corrected timeline: dosing stopped after a 2009 audit, not in 2013.
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.
Fluoridated before 2008, stopped after a 2009 audit.
No. Fluoride is not added to Mareeba's water. One of the few Queensland towns fluoridated before 2008, but dosing stopped after a 2009 audit found the equipment non-compliant.
Each council decides, since the 2012 handover. 16 of 77 still add it.
Look up Mareeba 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.