In late June, the National Health and Medical Research Council set new guidelines for PFAS chemicals in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). The old PFAS guidelines, established 8 years ago have been substantially reduced. PFOS has had its guideline reduced to 8ng/L (0.008µg/L), PFHxS to 30ng/L (0.03µg/L) and PFOA to 200ng/L (0.2µg/L). A new guideline for PFBS has been set at 1000ng/L (1µg/L) but no guideline could be established for GenX chemicals.
The 2017 ADWG's for PFOS+PFHxS were 70ng/L (0.07µg/L) and PFOA at 560ng/L (0.56µg/L). In 2016 guidelines for PFOS were 500ng/L (0.5µg/L) and 5000ng/L (5µg/L) for PFOA.
Friends of the Earth has created a large database of PFAS chemical detections. In light of the new guidelines, the table (below) has been established to compile a list of Australian communities that have been exposed to PFAS levels above the new guideline levels.
The key areas where average PFOS detections have exceeded the new guideline of 0.008µg/L, sometime over the past decade, are Avalon Airport Vic, Norfolk Island, Svensson Heights, Bundaberg Qld, Warialda NSW, Batchelor NT, Ayr Qld, Macknade Qld, Lucinda Qld, Katherine NT, Alva Beach Qld, Tarcutta NSW and Pine Creek NT.
Other key impacted communities where PFAS chemicals initially breached the new guideline levels include Narrabri NSW (2024), Katoomba NSW (2024) and Blackheath NSW (2024). Around 73,000 Australians would have been exposed to PFAS chemicals above the 2025 guideline levels, with many probably exposed to these levels for years and possibly decades. The largest population centres being The Blue Mountains NSW (41,000), Ayr (Qld) (10,000), Katherine NT (10,000), Narrabri NSW (5,500) and Svennson Heights, Bundaberg Qld (3,330). These five account for ~95% of the population exposed to PFAS chemicals in their drinking water >0.008µg/L.
Bore and water supply location breaches to PFOS: 72? (some detections did not differentiate between PFOS/PFHxS)
Bore and water supply location breaches to PFHxS: 26?(some detections did not differentiate between PFOS/PFHxS)
Bore and water supply location breaches to PFOA: 1
Bore and water supply location breaches to PFBS: 0
If you would like to donate to our PFAS research you can do so here.
For more information contact [email protected]
The table does not highlight issues concerning PFAS contaminated bore water from unreticulated water supplies. Some communities have been exposed to excessively high PFAS loads with some of the bores used for drinking water, garden use and bathing etc. Drinking from bore water in these scenarios have not been included in the following table and some individual houses at these locations would have been exposed to very high PFAS levels. These locations include: Williamtown (NSW), Oakey (Qld), Uralla North/Katherine (NT), Wreck Bay (NSW) Bullsbrook (WA). For more information on these locations please refer to this blog.
PFAS Tap testing does not regularly occur in almost all water jurisdictions. Can PFAS levels increase in some locations after water treatment? Water authorities generally only test raw water or water at water treatment plants. If PFAS loads are high in raw water that will generally mean that PFAS testing in tap water will occur in designated locations throughout the distribution network.
PFAS has been found in the blood of most Australians. If drinking water is not the major source of PFAS in the blood across the country, then where is the bulk of the PFAS coming from?
Avalon Airport is located about 16km north east of Geelong's CBD. Workers, including fire fighters, air traffic controllers and others including tenants using the facilities in the north eastern area of Avalon were exposed to excessively high levels of PFAS for possibly many years. Avalon is managed by Avalon Airport Australia Pty Ltd who lease the property from the Commonwealth. AirServices Australia lease parts of the airport impacted by PFAS. Drinking water to the airports boundary was the responsibility of Barwon Water (but not within the airport boundary). It appears that two different pipelines connected the terminal and other facilities. No detections in terminal drinking water supplies could be located by FoE. Avalon is currently under investigation by the EPA.
Svensson Heights in south western Bundaberg is located <2km from Bundaberg Airport. Thousands of residents at Svensson Heights would be have been exposed to PFAS chemicals up to 2018. The groundwater plume from airport is moving in a north easterly direction impacting on bores near the cities centre.
Ayr, Nelsons Bore 1 (Queensland)
In regards to the table, Red indicates the highest levels of PFAS detected during first sampling, indicating that PFAS pollution may have been occurring in this water supply for some time, even decades.
In some locations, PFAS detections reached highest levels after testing had been ongoing, probably indicating the slow spread of PFAS tainted groundwater.
Blue text highlights water in the reticulated system and tap water. It should also be noted that PFAS tainted bore water can in some localities be mixed with non-PFAS tainted water, thereby lowering the amount of PFAS. Some water treatment processes may also reduce PFAS detections.
There will also be locations around Australia which may have higher averages than some of the communities near the bottom of this list. These have not been included (except Sydney Water* detections) in the table due to no detections being in breach of the new guideline levels. Once detected in a water supply, PFAS average levels generally decrease with time, as water authorities attempt to find solutions to the pollution problem including the construction of new water treatment plants. (Sydney Water has also detected PFBA in their water supplies since 2024. PFBA has no drinking water guideline in Australia and yet has the highest PFAS detections amongst all the PFAS chemicals in the Sydney region).
This table will be updated as new information comes to hand, as much of the information was sourced from various Freedom of Information/GIPA/Right to Information Requests within restricted timelines.
| Date | Location | Samples | PFOS (maximum) µg/L | PFOS (average) µg/L | PFOS average as % of 2025 ADWG | Comments | |
| 1. | October 2022 | Avalon Airport (Victoria) | 2 | 13.52 | 9.535 | 1191.875x | Possibly between 50-100 workers were exposed to PFAS in drinking water at Avalon. The passenger terminal appears not to have been impacted. |
| 2. | 2020-2023 | Norfolk Island | 26 | PFOS + PFHxS 44.5 | PFOS + PFHxS 7.803 | Most problems in 2020 now appear to be resolved with the main airport bore now disused. 43.5% of all PFAS detected 2020-2023 detected in Airport Bore. 99.5% of all PFAS detected in 2023 was from disused airport bore. | |
| 3. | ? | Tomago Station 9 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 1 | PFOS + PFHxS 2.91 | PFOS and PFHxS (Sample procured by Defence – bore only). Also see further down table for Hunter Water Testing at bore. Station 9 was isolated from production in 2014. Highest levels detected Sep 2015. | ||
| 4. | July 2018 - November 2020 | Macknade Bore 3 (Queensland) | 3 |
0.74 (PFHXS) 0.26 |
0.3 (PFHxS) 0.101 |
37.5x 3.39x |
Highest PFOS levels detected September 2018. |
| 5. | March 2018 - March 2019 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 2 (Queensland) | 7 |
0.3 (PFHxS) 0.15 |
0.216 (PFHxS) 0.1064 |
27x 3.5467x |
Highest PFOS levels June 2018. Bore taken offline in 2018. |
| 6. | March 2018 - January 2024 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 6 (Queensland) | 23 |
0.54 (PFHxS) 0.18 |
0.161 (PFHxS) 0.0591 |
20.125x 1.97x |
Highest PFOS levels April 2023. Highest PFHxS levels September 2022. Bore isolated in October 2022 and retired from use. |
| 7. | March - October 2025 | Hospital Park Bore, Warialda NSW | 4 |
0.15 (PFHxS) 0.53 |
0.1125 (PFHxS) 0.3925 |
14.06x 13.08x |
Bore discontinued in December 2024 after high levels of PFAS detected in Warialda's drinking water. Highest PFHxS levels detected in this bore in July 2025. Highest PFOS December 2024. |
| 8 | February 25 2025 | Unspecified Toowoomba Bore | 1 | PFOS + PFHxS 0.094 | PFOS + PFHxS 0.094 | 11.75x | Isolated bore from service Feb 25. 47 bore stations accessing groundwater contribute approximately 20-30% of Toowoomba's drinking water supply. Unclear how long this bore has been contaminated and for how long? |
| 9. | February - April 2019 | Hammersley Street Bore 2, Esperance (Western Australia) | 3 | PFOS + PFHxS 0.13 | PFOS + PFHxS 0.093 | No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. Water Corporation have refused access to PFAS data via Freedom of Information. | |
| 10. | April 2018 - May 2018 | Dr Mays Bore, Svensson Heights, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 3 |
0.091 (PFHxS) 0.21 |
0.07933 (PFHxS) 0.1667 |
9.916x 5.56x |
Bore water stopped being used in April 2018. |
| 11. | September 2017 | Dr Mays Reservoir, Svensson Heights, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 2 |
0.072 0.11 |
0.07 (PFHxS) 0.0605 |
8.75X 2.017X |
|
| 12. | April 2018 - July 2023 | Powers Street Bore, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 23 |
0.146 (PFHxS) 0.35 |
0.06456 (PFHxS) 0.17596 |
8.07x 5.86x |
Powers Street bore is about 3km north east of Bundaberg Airport. Water from Powers Street bore, is blended/diluted with water at Bourbong Street Reservoir, which sources water from Branyan WTP/Burnett River. Power Street bore taken offline 9/10/23, Decommissioned 27/5/24. Highest PFOS levels April 2023. |
| 13. | July 2024 - March 2026 | Medlow Dam (Blue Mountains NSW) | 27 |
0.0838 (PFHxS) 0.0693 |
0.059011 (PFHxS) 0.044156 |
7.376x 1.472x |
Water NSW Testing. Highest PFOS levels December 2025 (0.0838µg/L), PFHxS (0.0693µg/L December 2024. |
| 14. | October 2009 + May 2015 - May 2023 | Tomago Station 9 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 9 | 0.17 | 0.06 | 7.5x | Station 9 was isolated from production in 2014. Highest levels detected Sep 2015. |
| 15. | January 2020 - January 2024 | Dr Mays Test Bore (Svensson Heights Bundaberg, Queensland) | 16 |
0.201 (PFHxS) 0.295 |
0.0546 (PFHxS) 0.0939 |
6.825x 3.13x |
Highest levels detected in October 2023. |
| 16. | March 2018 - July 2024 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 5 (Queensland) | 6 |
0.12 (PFHxS) 0.054 |
0.05367 (PFHxS) 0.02361 |
6.709x 78.7% |
Highest PFOS levels May 2018.Bore taken offline in 2018. |
| 17. | 9/4/2018 | Svensson Heights Tap samples from 9 houses, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 9 |
0.051 (PFHxS) 0.13 |
0.04744 (PFHxs) 0.12111 |
5.93x 4.037x |
Source water was Dr May's Bore which was shut down 11/4/2018. High levels detected in Sep 2017 at Dr May's Reservoir. |
| 18. | July 2024 - March 2026 | Greaves Creek Dam (Blue Mountains NSW) | 27 |
0.0499 (PFHxS) 0.0438 |
0.036252 (PFHxS) 0.028 |
4.5315x 93.33% |
Testing by Water NSW. Highest PFOS levels January 2025 (0.0499µg/L), PFHxS December 2024 (0.0438µg/L). |
| 19. | 2017 | Batchelor (Northern Territory) | 2 |
PFHxS/PFOS 0.0664 |
0.0382 |
? |
No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. 2024: "In Batchelor a bore drilling program aims to secure a new PFAS free source and connect it to the supply" |
| 20. | November 2019 - August 2020 | 5 street Locations, Ayr (Queensland) | 12 |
0.065 (PFHxS) 0.034 |
0.038 (PFHxS) 0.0222 |
4.75x 74% |
Highest levels detected November 2019. PFOS in November 2019 would have been at eight times 0.008µg/L. |
| 21. | June 2018 - July 2023 | Powers Street Reservoir, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 21 |
0.0803 (PFHxS) 0.0371 |
0.03713 (PFHxS) 0.08828 |
4.64x 2.94x |
Highest PFOS + PFHxS levels detected July 2023. |
| 22. | September 2021 - September 2025 | Drift Wells Bore, Dubbo NSW | 40 |
0.05 PFHxS |
0.032625 (PFHxS) 0.0671 |
4.078x 2.233x |
Bore Not in Use, probably since 2020. Highest levels of PFOS detected January 2025 0.05µg/L and PFHxS 0.14µg/L |
| 23. | 12/7/2018 | Dungness 2 bores (Queensland) | 2 |
0.061 |
0.0348 |
4.35x |
Unclear if PFAS was detected in taps at Dungness (located near Lucinda). |
| 24. | March 2018 - January 2025 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 1 (Queensland) | 37 |
0.12 (PFHxS) 0.066 |
0.03461 (PFHxS) 0.02361 |
4.326x 78.7% |
Highest PFOS levels September 2022. Bore taken offline in 2018. |
| 25. | October 2024 - March 2026 | Tarcutta Domestic Bore 5 (NSW) | 16 |
0.122 (PFHxS) 0.153 |
0.02565 0.03344 |
3.206x 1.115x |
Bore Taken offline early in 2025. Highest PFHxS detection 0.153ug/L (Dec 25). Highest PFOS detection 0.122ug/L (Dec 25). |
| 26. | May 2021 - September 2025 | Thorby Bore, Dubbo NSW | 45 |
0.04 (PFHxS) 0.07 |
0.022356 (PFHxS) 0.0468 |
2.795x 1.56x |
Bore Not in Use, probably since 2020. |
| 27. | July 2018 | Macknade (Queensland) | 2 |
0.056 |
0.0325 |
4.063x |
Macknade is located ~12km north east of the town of Ingham. |
| 28. | June 2018 - July 2018 | Lorim Point, Weipa Queensland |
0.034 |
|
|
30 tests recorded PFOS, with a maximum of 0.034µg/L. Average levels not available. | |
| 29. | July 2018 - November 2020 | Lucinda (Queensland) | 3 |
0.055 |
0.0293 |
3.663x |
Lucinda is located ~10km north east of Macknade. |
| 30. | 2016-2021? | Katherine (Northern Territory) | 7? |
0.079 |
0.0277 |
3.463x |
0.079µg/L was a bore blended tap sample (Oct 2016). Tap sample (Nov 2016) 0.052µg/L. Average levels likely to be inflated due to lack of published data. |
| 31. | Dec 2024 - April 2026 | Killarney Bore, Narrabri (NSW) | 11 |
0.036 (PFHxS) 0.035 |
0.0245 (PFHxS) 0.0228 |
3.0625x 76% |
Highest PFOS levels detected in March 2025. Bore shut down July 2025. Highest PFHxS levels April 2026. |
| 32. | 10/8/20 | Alva Beach (Queensland) | 1 |
0.025 |
|
3.125x |
Sources drinking water from Ayr. |
| 33. | March 2018 - March 2025 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 3 (Queensland) | 59 |
0.088 (PFHxS) 0.045 |
0.02375 (PFHxS) 0.02023 |
2.969x 67.4% |
Highest PFOS and PFHxS levels October 2018. Still used as an emergency supply bore. |
| 34. | June 2018 - July 2018 | Weipa Airport (Queensland) |
0.027 |
|
|
Offending Airport Bore SA26 shut down in 2020. Eight tests in 2018 from two locations recorded max PFOS detection of 0.027µg/L. Average level unavailable. | |
| 35. | March 2018 - March 2025 | Ayr, Nelsons Bore 4 (Queensland) | 61 |
0.043 (PFHxS) 0.03 |
0.02149 0.01505 |
2.686x 50.167% |
Highest PFOS and PFHxS October 2023. Still used as an emergency supply bore. |
| 36. | October 2016 | Adelaide River (NT) | 1 |
PFOS/PFHxS 0.023 |
0.023 |
|
No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. 2024: "At Pine Creek, Adelaide River and Batchelor, bores have been taken offline to manage concentrations of PFAS. Bores with PFAS detected at elevated levels, approaching guideline values, have been removed from service, or are blended with other bores, with sampling undertaken at an increased frequency." |
| 37. | July 2018 - December 2020 | Macknade Bore 4 (Queensland) | 12 |
0.093 (PFHXS) 0.03 |
0.01983 0.00483 |
2.479x 1.61x |
Highest PFOS levels detected November 2020. |
| 38. | March 2018 - March 2025 | Ayr, Chambers Bore 15 (Queensland) | 51 |
0.076 (PFHxS) 0.036 |
0.01938 0.0095 |
2.423x 31.667% |
Highest PFOS and PFHxS levels November 2020. Still used as an emergency supply bore. |
| 39. | November 2017 - July 2018 | Weipa (Queensland) |
0.019 |
|
|
PFAS was detected in Weipa drinking water supply in 2017 and 2018. Results are owned by Rio Tinto. Maximum PFOS detected in 2018 by independent company from 39 samples. Weipa Airport water supply shut down in 2020. Offending Airport Bore SA26 shut down in 2020. | |
| 40. | September 2019 - March 2025 | Ayr, Chambers Bore 16 (Queensland) | 46 |
0.038 |
0.0168 |
2.1x |
Highest PFOS levels October 2023. |
| 41. | 2010 | Glenunga (South Australia) | 2 |
0.0156 |
0.01535 |
1.919x |
Study published in 2011 took two samples from Glenunga drinking water after treatment in Australia wide study (see Thomson 2011) |
| 42. | May 2018 - March 2025 | Ayr Water Tower Outflow | 70 |
0.059 (PFHxS) 0.032 |
0.01337 (PFHXS) 0.00766 |
1.671x 25.53% |
Treated Reticulation. Highest PFOS levels in Sep 2018 and Nov 2019. 73% of samples since December 2023 <LOD. |
| 43. | 2015, 2017, 2022 | Tomago Station 15 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 3 | 0.02 | 0.013 | 1.65x | Tomago sandbeds are the main source of drinking water for the Tomaree Peninsula, north of Newcastle. Tomago sandbeds can provide up to 20% of the Lower Hunters drinking water. |
| 44. | November 2024 - November 2025 | Warialda North Reservoir (NSW) | 11 |
0.046 (PFHxS) 0.11 |
0.01118 (PFHxS) 0.0226 |
1.397x 75.333% |
Two of the towns 5 bores supplying the north of the town were contaminated with PFAS. Contaminated bores were switched off in Dec 2024. North Reservoir has had no PFOS detections since January 2025 |
| 45. | December 2024 - April 2026 | Narrabri, Tibberina Bore (NSW) | 11 |
0.031 |
0.011636 |
1.4545x |
Highest levels detected Feb 2025. Bore taken offline July 2025. In October 2025 NSW Department of Health agrees to blend water from Tibberina bore with Elizabeth Street bore to supplement towns drinking water supply. |
| 46. | May 2022 - 2025 | Rottnest Island (WA) | 3? | 0.03 | 0.01 | 1.25x | Rottnest Island Authority are responsible for drinking water on Rottnest Island. Highest levels of PFOS detected 23/5/2023. |
| 47. | 2018 - 2023 | Rockhampton Glenmore Water Treatment Plant (Queensland) | 5 PFOA?, 3 PFOS? |
0.025 (PFOA) 0.89 |
0.01 (PFOA) 0.19 |
1.25x 95% |
Result could be an anomaly. Result published in Rockhampton Shire Council 2022/23 Drinking Water Quality Management Plan, but council tests do not confirm this. |
| 48. | June 2017 - September 2024 | Tomago Station 8 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 50 | 0.028 | 0.01 | 1.25x | Tomago sandbeds are the main source of drinking water for the Tomaree Peninsula, north of Newcastle. Tomago sandbeds can provide up to 20% of the Lower Hunters drinking water. |
| 49. | March 2018 - May 2021 | Ayr, Chambers Bore 15 Tap (Queensland) | 12 | 0.034 | 0.00925 | 1.156x | Highest PFOS level detected September 2018. |
| 50. | April 2018 - July 2023 | Bundaberg, Mulgrave Street Bore (Queensland) | 23 |
0.0268 (PFHxS) 0.0631 |
0.008883 (PFHxS) 0.018617 |
1.111x 62.06% |
Highest PFOS, PFHxS levels detected in April 2023. Bore decommissioned 27/5/24. |
| 51. | October 2023 - September 2024 | Ayr Water Tower Inflow | 21 |
0.037 |
0.008738 |
1.092x |
Treated Reticulation. Highest PFOS levels November 2023. 62% of samples since December 2023 <LOD. |
| 52. | August 2025 - March 2026 | Narromine Bore 3 | 6 |
0.012 (PFHxS) 0.025 |
0.00733 (PFHxS) 0.017 |
91.625% 56.667% |
Bore located in close proximity to Narromine Reservoir. 2 bores at Narromine have tested positive for PFAS |
| 53. | October 2024 - January 2025 | Bore #6 Bungendore | 5 |
0.008 |
0.0072 |
90% |
Water from this bore is 'diluted' with other bore water from Bungendore. Including Bore#1 which averaged 0.00125ug/L Nov 24- Jan 25. Highest detection Bore#6 Nov 24. |
| 54. | 2017 | Pine Creek (Northern Territory) | 1 | PFOS/PFHxS 0.009 | No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. 2024: "At Pine Creek, Adelaide River and Batchelor, bores have been taken offline to manage concentrations of PFAS. Bores with PFAS detected at elevated levels, approaching guideline values, have been removed from service, or are blended with other bores, with sampling undertaken at an increased frequency." |
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| 55. | July 2020 - September 2023 | Tomago Station 1 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 12 | 0.012 | 0.007 | 87.5% | Tomago sandbeds are the main source of drinking water for the Tomaree Peninsula, north of Newcastle. Tomago sandbeds can provide up to 20% of the Lower Hunters drinking water. |
| 56. | October 2024 - November 2024 | Bore #3 Bungendore (NSW) | 2 | 0.009 | 0.0065 | 81.25% | Bore isolated from network October 2024 |
| 57. | Aug 2024 - February 2025 | Middle Cascade Dam (Blue Mountains NSW) | 9 | 0.0131 | 0.006167 | 77.087% | Testing by Water NSW. Highest PFOS levels January 2025. |
| 58. | July 2024 - March 2026 | Upper Cascade Dam (NSW) | 27 |
0.0272 |
0.005919 |
73.987% |
Testing by Water NSW. Highest PFOS levels July 2024 (0.0272ug/L). |
| 59. | October 7 2025 | Wallangarra Reservoir (Queensland) | 1 |
0.006 |
0.006 | 75% | First year of Southern Downs Regional Council PFAS Testing |
| 60. | November 2025 | Marulan Raw Water (NSW) | 1 |
0.005 |
0.005 | 62.5% | Testing by Goulburn Mulwaree Council. Treated water is ~50% of raw water total. |
| 61. | July 2024 - March 2026 | Cascade Water Treatment Plant Raw Water - Blue Mountains (NSW) | 25 |
0.0136 |
0.004996 | 62.45% | Testing by Water NSW. Highest PFOS levels July 2024. |
| 62. | December 2024 - April 2026 | Narrabri, Namoi Street Reservoir (NSW) | 22 | 0.009 | 0.004818 | 60.225% | Testing began in December 2024, highest levels of PFOS June 2025. Levels dropped to zero in Aug/Sep 2025. In Oct 2025 NSW Department of Health agrees to blend water from Tibberina bore with Elizabeth Street bore to supplement towns drinking water supply. |
| 63. | 2024 | Hay (NSW) | 1 | PFOS+ PFHxS 0.006 | 0.006 | ? | No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. |
| 64. | Feb 2019 - June 2019 | Esperance Water Treatment Plant (Paine Road) (Western Australia) | 8 | PFOS+PFHxS 0.021 | PFOS+PFHxS 0.005125 | ? | No information on amount of individual PFOS/PFHxS. Water Corporation have refused access to PFAS data via Freedom of Information. |
| 65. | October 2023 - March 2026 | West Wagga Bore 5 (NSW) | 19 |
0.015 |
0.0045 |
56.25% |
First positive detection in April 2025. Average PFOS detection Apr 25 - Mar 26 0.0077µg/L. PFAS plume moving westwards and increasing. Highest PFOS levels December 2025. |
| 66. | September 2017 - January 2024 | Tomago Station 21 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 336 | 0.013 | 0.0042 | 52.5% | Tomago sandbeds are the main source of drinking water for the Tomaree Peninsula, north of Newcastle. Tomago sandbeds can provide up to 20% of the Lower Hunters drinking water. |
| 67. | February 2018 - October 2024 | Lake Mulwala (Victoria) | 73 |
0.29 (PFHxS) 0.037 |
0.004122 (PFHxS) 0.0005 |
51.525% 16.67% |
Victoria's highest PFOS detection on 13/7/23. |
| 68. | July 2018 - November 2020 | Macknade Bore 5 (Queensland) | 11 |
0.009 |
0.004091 |
51.17% |
Highest PFOS levels detected July 2018. |
| 69. | February 2024 | North Richmond (NSW) | 5 |
0.006 |
0.00404 |
50.05% |
5 samples taken from tap water from 5 separate North Richmond locations were published in this independent study. Sydney Water testing at North Richmond WFP (not tap water) Sep 2023 - Sep 2025 averaged PFOS 0.001372ug/L |
| 70. | July 2025 - March 2026 | West Wagga Water Treatment Plant Outlet (NSW) | 7 |
0.0065 |
0.003714 | 46.425% | Testing began in July 2025. Highest PFOS levels February 2026. |
| 71. | September 2023 - March 2026 | West Wagga Bore 4 (NSW) | 28 |
0.011 |
0.003368 |
42.1% |
First positive detection in November 2024. Highest PFOS detection Dec 2025. Average PFOS detection Nov 24-Dec 25 0.006744µg/L. PFAS plume moving westwards. |
| 72. | 2017-2025 | Googong Reservoir (ACT) | 9 | 0.03 | 0.00333 | 41.625% | Results published by Icon Water. Highest detection June 2021. |
| 73. | July 2023 - October 2024 | Djerriwarrh Reservoir (Victoria) | 20 |
0.053 |
0.00305 |
38.125% |
Djerriwarrh Reservior is a back up water supply and is located west of Melbourne. |
| 74. | October 2024 - December 2025 | Tarcutta Treated + Water Treatment Plant Outlet (NSW) | 5 |
0.0149 |
0.00298 |
37.25% |
PFAS levels below LOD in July-Sep 2025. |
| 75. | September 2024 - January 2026 | Bungendore (NSW) | 17 | 0.004 | 0.002941 | 36.76% | Highest PFOS levels detected Sep 2024, Oct 2024 and February 2025. |
| 76. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Katoomba (Blue Mountains NSW) | 85 | 0.0164 | 0.002933 | 36.66625% | PFOS exceeded 0.008µg/L from June to November 2024. Testing by Sydney Water. New water treatment plant December 2024. |
| 77. | 2016-2025 | Corin Reservoir (ACT) | 10 | 0.02 | 0.0029 | 36.225% | Results published by Icon Water. Highest detection December 2016. |
| 78. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Blackheath (Blue Mountains NSW) | 85 | 0.0155 | 0.002882 | 36.025% | PFOS exceeded 0.008µg/L from June to November 2024. Testing by Sydney Water. New water treatment plant December 2024. |
| 79. | December 2024 - April 2026 | Narrabri, Elizabeth Street Bore (NSW) | 11 | 0.006 | 0.002727 | 34.0875% | Highest detection February 2025. In October 2025 NSW Department of Health agrees to blend water from Tibberina bore with Elizabeth Street bore to supplement towns drinking water supply. |
| 80. | October 2017 - March 2018 | Teesdale (Victoria) | 5 |
0.013 |
0.0026 |
32.5% |
Barwon Water |
| 81. | 2023 - March 2026 | Narromine Reservoir (NSW) | 8 |
0.0041 |
0.002575 |
32.1875% |
Potable Water. Results published in Narromine Shire Council Water Quality Reports 2023/25 and samples 5 samples taken between August 2025 and February 2026. |
| 82. | October 2017 - September 2024 | Moorabool River Raw (Victoria) | 14 |
0.009 |
0.002538 |
31.725% |
Data included is from Barwon Water website & FOI. Between August 2021 to March 2023 PFOS averaging 0.004715µg/L. |
| 83. | August 2025 - March 2026 | Narromine Bore 8 (NSW) | 6 |
0.003 |
0.0025 |
31.25% |
Bore located 1km south west of Narromine Reservoir. 2 bores at Narromine have tested positive for PFAS. 0.003µg/L detected between Dec 2025-Feb 2026. |
| 84. | July 2025 | Wagga Clearwater Storage (NSW) | 1 |
0.0023 |
0.0023 |
28.75% |
Probably a blend of treated water from a number of sources including from West Wagga 'contamination' area. |
| 85. | 2020-2025 | Mount Isa (Lake Monduran) (Qld) | 5? |
0.0043 |
0.0023? |
28.75% |
Lake Monduran is one of two sources for drinking water to Mount Isa. More information required. Highest PFOS levels 2024/25. |
| 86. | October 2024 - November 2025 | Marulan Treated Water (NSW) | 2 |
0.0027 |
0.00225 |
28.125% |
Testing by Goulburn Mulwaree Council. Treated water is ~50% of raw water total. |
| 87. | November 2024 | Attunga (NSW) | 1 |
0.002 |
0.002 |
25% |
Tamworth Regional Shire |
| 88. | August 2023 - April 2026 | North Richmond WFP (NSW) | 86 | 0.0051 | 0.001631 | 20.3875% | Sydney Water testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels October 2025 0.0051µg/L. Highest PFBA levels 0.146µg/L January 2025. |
| 89. | November 2024 - July 2025 | Geurie (NSW) | 8 |
0.013 |
0.001625 |
20.312% |
One PFOS detection only in March 2025 |
| 90. | June 2021 - September 2025 | Ronald Bore, Dubbo (NSW) | 43 |
0.01 |
0.001581 |
19.76% |
One of a number of bores supplying Dubbo with drinking water |
| 91. | September 2024 - March 2026 | Capalba WTP (Queensland) Raw Water | 15 |
0.0035 |
0.001568 |
19.6% |
Water treatment plant in South East Queensland. Highest PFOS levels detected November 2025. |
| 92. | November 2024 - January 2025 | Bore #1 Bungendore (NSW) | 4 |
0.002 |
0.00125 |
15.625% |
Queanbeyan Shire Testing |
| 93. | October 2017 - March 2025 | Moorabool Water Treatment Plant - combined pre-treatment (Victoria) | 15 |
0.013 |
0.00117 |
14.625% |
Highest PFOS detection January 2018. |
| 94. | October 2017 - December 2024 | Gellibrand (Victoria) | 14 |
0.013 |
0.001143 |
14.29% |
2 positive results. |
| 95. | May 2018 - September 2024 | South Ayr Bore 12 (Queensland) | 47 |
0.0093 |
0.00112 |
14% |
Highest PFOS levels April 2020. |
| 96. | June 2017 - June 2024 | Tomago Station 14 (Hunter Water, NSW) | 34 | 0.014 | 0.0011 | 13.75% | Tomago sandbeds are the main source of drinking water for the Tomaree Peninsula, north of Newcastle. Tomago sandbeds can provide up to 20% of the Lower Hunters drinking water. |
| 97. | September 2024 - December 2025 | Orange (NSW) | 6 |
0.0014 |
0.001083 |
13.53% |
Highest PFOS detection December 2024. |
| 98 | 2025? | Adelaide CBD workplaces (SA) Tap Water | 4 |
0.0012 |
0.00105 |
13.125% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 99. | December - November 2025 | Crane Street Bore, Warialda (NSW) | 6 | 0.006 | 0.001 | 12.5% | Bore discontinued in December 2024 after PFOS detection. |
| 100. | 2023/2025 | Tomingley (NSW) | 2 |
0.001 |
0.001 |
12.5% |
Results published in Narromine Shire Council Water Quality Reports. |
| 101. | December 2024 | Yetman (NSW) | 1 |
0.001 |
0.001 |
12.5% |
https://inverell.nsw.gov.au/inverell-shire-water-supplies-pass-pfas-testing/ |
| 102. | 2025? | Playford, Adelaide residential (SA) Tap Water | 1 |
0.001 |
0.001 |
12.5% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 103. | 2025? | Holdfast Bay, Adelaide residential (SA) Tap Water | 1 |
0.001 |
0.001 |
12.5% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 104. | 2025? | Adelaide CBD (SA) Water Fountains | 4 |
0.001 |
0.001 |
12.5% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 105. | November 2025 - April 2026 | Cascade Outlet (NSW) | 23 |
0.0014 |
0.000939 |
11.7375% |
Outlet from Cascade WFP in the Blue Mountains. PFAS monitoring started almost one year since portable water treatment plant installed to remove PFAS from Cascade WFP. Highest PFOS levels 0.0014µg/L (Dec 2025). |
| 106. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Orchard Hills WFP (NSW) | 34 | 0.0013 | 0.000812 | 10.45% | Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels July 2025. Highest PFBA levels 0.026µg/L August 2025. |
| 107. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Warragamba Dam (NSW) | 34 | 0.0014 | 0.000788 | 9.85% | Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels April 2026 0.0014µg/L. Highest PFBA levels 0.022µg/L March & May 2025. |
| 108. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Prospect WFP (NSW). Services ~5,000,000 people | 34 | 0.0019 | 0.000788 | 8.7875% | Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels April 2026 0.0019µg/L. Highest PFBA levels 0.037µg/L July 2025. |
| 109. | July 2024 - March 2026 | Capalba WTP (Queensland) Treated Water | 14 |
0.0036 |
0.0007846 |
9.8075% |
Water treatment plant in South East Queensland. Highest PFOS levels in treated water detected May 2025 3.6µg/L. Average treated water PFOS levels ~50% of Raw Water. Capalba supplies 100,000 people and uses conventional treatment. |
| 110. | October 2024 - March 2026 | Tarcutta Domestic Bore 4 | 16 | 0.0055 | 0.000781 | 9.7625% | Highest PFOS detection Jan 2025. Bore still in use after Bore 5 was shut down in May 2025. |
| 111. | August 2024 - January 2026 | Ourimbah Creek Weir (NSW) | 18 | 0.003 | 0.000778 | 9.725% | Up until August 2024, Ourimbah Creek Weir was included in the Central Coast Council's water supply network. Water from the weir would be piped to Mardi Dam. PFAS levels here are only indicative. |
| 112. | February 2017 - January 2025 | Sale (Victoria) | 108 | 0.081 | 0.00075 | 9.375% | Only PFOS detection in raw February 2021. PFOS detected in reticulated water May 2018 at 0.004µg/L. |
| 113. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Kerang (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0012 | 0.000725 | 9.0625% | Water source: Murray River 14/2 Irrigation Channel |
| 114. | October 2024 - January 2026? | Denman (NSW) | 2 | 0.0012 | 0.0007 | 8.75% | Muswellbrook Shire Council |
| 115. | July 2022 - May 2025 | Jervis Bay WTP (NSW) | 9 | 0.0009 | 0.000694 | 8.675% | Incomplete data from Jervis Bay, published by Infrastructure Australia. |
| 116. | October 2017 - December 2024 | Lorne (Victoria) | 17 | 0.011 | 0.000647 | 8.09% | One detection only. |
| 117. | April 2018 - October 2023 | Bourbong Reservoir, Bundaberg (Queensland) | 29 | 0.0095 | 0.000638 | 7.98% | Main drinking water source for Bundaberg. |
| 118. | October 2024 | Morunda (NSW) | 1 | 0.0006 | 0.0006 | 7.5% | Riverina Water |
| 119. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Murrabit (Victoria) | 5 | 0.0013 | 0.00058 | 7.25% | Water source: Murray River |
| 120. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Mildura (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0009 | 0.00055 | 6.875% | Water source: Murray River |
| 121. | December 2024 - December 2025 | Lake Cargelligo (NSW) | 6* | 0.0013 | 0.000517 | 6.4625% | Lake Cargelligo is a supplementary source for the township of Lake Cargelligo. Most of the towns drinking water comes from bore water. Water Testing* done by Water NSW (4) and Lachlan Shire Council once a year (2) |
| 122. | October 2017 - October 2024 | Bathurst, Montavella Road (NSW) | 100 | 0.042 | 0.00051 | 6.38% | Upstream from the Bathurst Water Treatment Plant. Highest detection August 2020. |
| 123. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Red Cliffs (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0008 | 0.0005 | 6.25% | Water source: Murray River |
| 124. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Robinvale (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0009 | 0.0005 | 6.25% | Water source: Murray River |
| 125. | October 2024- June 2025 | Griffith City (NSW) | 2 | 0.001 | 0.0005 | 6.25% | Griffith City Council testing |
| 126. | October 2024 - August 2025 | Broken Hill (NSW) | 3 | 0.0006 | 0.0005 | 6.25% | Essential Water |
| 127. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Piangil (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0008 | 0.00048 | 6% | Water source: Murray River |
| 128. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Koondrook (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0014 | 0.00045 | 5.625% | Water source: Murray River |
| 129. | November 2024-May 2025 | Gulgong (NSW) | 2 | 0.0007 | 0.00045 | 5.625% | Midwestern Regional Council |
| 130. | October 2024 - January 2026? | Muswellbrook (NSW) | 2 | 0.0007 | 0.00045 | 5.625% | Muswellbrook Shire Council |
| 131. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Balcolyn (NSW) | 35 | 0.007 | 0.00043 | 5.375% | Hunter Water - Lake Macquarie NSW. 2 detections 2017 and one in December 2023 |
| 132. | December 2024 - February 2026 | Swan Hill (Victoria) | 4 | 0.0008 | 0.000425 | 5.3125% | Water source: Murray River |
| 133. | March 2017 - October 2024 | Bathurst Water Filtration Plant (NSW) | 109 | 0.03 | 0.000413 | 5.16% | Highest PFOS June 2017. |
| 134. | December 2024 | Jerry's Plains | 1 | 0.0004 | 0.0004 | 5% | Singleton Council |
| 135. | 2025? | Marion, Adelaide residential (SA) Tap Water | 1 |
0.0004 |
0.0004 |
5% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 136. | 2025? | Tea Tree Gully, Adelaide residential (SA) Tap Water | 1 |
0.0004 |
0.0004 |
5% |
Published in "Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in trace levels via drinking water diminishes mouse embryo mitochondria function across three generations" |
| 137. | October 2024 - August 2025 | Menindee (NSW) | 3 | 0.0004 | 0.000367 | 4.587% | Essential Water |
| 138. | February 2018 - October 2024 | Wangaratta (Victoria) | 70 | (PFHxS) 0.09 | (PFHxS) 0.001286 | 4.287% | PFHxS detection March 2018. |
| 139. | February 2020 - March 2026 | East Wagga Bore 2 (NSW) | 33 | 0.004 | 0.000342 | 4.275% | Highest level July 2025. |
| 140. | August 2017 - October 2021 | Wodonga Raw (Victoria) | 30 | 0.01 | 0.00033 | 4.13% | Only PFOS detection November 2017. |
| 141. | February 2020 - February 2026 | East Wagga Bore 3 (NSW) | 13 | 0.0021 | 0.000323 | 4.0375% | Highest levels Feb/March 2025 |
| 142. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Warners Bay (NSW) | 35 | 0.005 | 0.00029 | 3.635% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Lake Macquarie. 3 detections 2016/17. |
| 143. | September 2017 - January 2025 | Grahamstown East Main (NSW) | 368 | 0.008 | 0.00026 | 3.25% | Pre-treatment. Hunter Water |
| 144. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Dudley (NSW) | 35 | 0.005 | 0.00026 | 3.25% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 4 detections 2016/17 |
| 145. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Lambton (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.00026 | 3.25% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 3 detections 2016/17 |
| 146. | July 2023 - June 2025 | Orde Hill Reservoir (Vic) | 24? | 0.006 | 0.00025? | 3.125% | Highest detection sometime between July 2024-June 2025. Orde Hill Reservoir supplies Macedon and Mount Macedon with drinking water. |
| 147. | February 2020-February 2026 | Murrumbidgee River, Wagga (NSW) | 21 | 0.0024 | 0.000229 | 2.8625% | At offtake to Wagga Water Treatment Plant. Highest detections Feb - March 2025. 2 positive samples for PFOS, 5 for PFHxS. |
| 148. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Macarthur WFP (NSW) | 21 | 0.0006 | 0.00022381 | 2.797% | Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels 0.006µg/L. |
| 149. | October 2024 - March 2026 | Wingcarribbee WFP (NSW) Raw Water | 14 | 0.0007 | 0.000221 | 2.7625% | Water NSW Testing. PFoS detected at 0.0007µg/L March 2026. |
| 150. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Rankin Park (NSW) | 36 | 0.003 | 0.00022 | 2.75% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 2 detections 2017/18. |
| 151. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Hamilton (NSW) | 70 | 0.006 | 0.00021 | 2.625% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 4 detections 2017/2018. |
| 152. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Woronora WFP (NSW) | 35 | 0.0024 | 0.0002057 | 2.5712% | Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFOS levels January 2025. |
| 153. | January 2016 - January 2025 | Grahamstown West Main (NSW) | 419 | 0.008 | 0.0002 | 2.5% | Pre-treatment. Hunter Water |
| 154. | Feb 2020 - December 2025 | East Wagga Bore 1 (NSW) | 32 | 0.0022 | 0.0002 | 2.5% | Highest detection Feb/March 2025 |
| 155. | June 2024 - April 2026 | Macarthur WFP Appin (NSW) | 31 | 0.0007 | 0.000185 | 2.3125% |
Sydney Water & Water NSW testing. No breaches to ADWG. Highest PFBA levels 0.058µg/L November 2024. Highest PFBA (Appin) 0.04µg/L August 2025. |
| 156. | August 2016 - November 2024 | Karuah (NSW) | 34 | 0.006 | 0.00018 | 2.25% |
Hunter Water. Locality in Port Stephens area. One detection 2019. |
| 157. | February 2018 - October 2024 | Wahgunyah (Victoria) | 71 | 0.013 | 0.000178 | 2.225% | Highest detection February 2018. |
| 158. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Adamstown (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.00017 | 2.125% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 3 detections 2016/17. One detection of 6:2 FTS 0.026µg/L September 2016. |
| 159. | August 2016 - December 2024 | New Lambton (NSW) | 35 | 0.003 | 0.00017 | 2.125% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. |
| 160. | August 2016 - November 2024 | Garden Suburbs (NSW) | 34 | 0.003 | 0.00015 | 1.875% | Hunter Water. Suburb in the Lake Macquarie LGA. 2 detections 2017. |
| 161. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Charlestown (NSW) | 35 | 0.003 | 0.00014 | 1.75% | Hunter Water. Suburb of City of Port Macquarie. 2 detections 2017. |
| 162. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Tingira Heights (NSW) | 35 | 0.003 | 0.00014 | 1.75% | Hunter Water. Suburb of City of Port Macquarie. 2 detections 2017 and 2020. |
| 163. | January 2017 - January 2026 | Caramut Bore B (Victoria) | 36 | 0.005 | 0.000139 | 1.7375% | Only PFOS detection July 2025. |
| 164. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Medowie (NSW) | 121 | 0.006 | 0.00013 | 1.625% | Hunter Water. Highest detection February 2019. |
| 165. | May 2021 - September 2025 | Dubbo Water Treatment Plant (NSW) | 47 | 0.003 | 0.000128 | 1.6% | Highest levels 0.003µg/L Feb and May 2025. Average PFOS levels from Feb 2025 - Sep 2025 0.00075µg/L |
| 166. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Cardiff (NSW) | 34 | 0.004 | 0.00012 | 1.5% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Lake Macquarie LGA. 1 detection 2016. |
| 167. | August 2016 - November 2024 | Maryland (NSW) | 33 | 0.004 | 0.00012 | 1.5% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 1 detection 2016. |
| 168. | August 2016 - November 2024 | Vacy (NSW) | 34 | 0.004 | 0.00012 | 1.5% | Hunter Water. Locality in Dungog Shire. 1 detection 2019. |
| 169. | January 2017 - January 2026 | Caramut Bore A (Victoria) | 36 | 0.004 | 0.000117 | 1.3875% | Only PFOS detection January 2024. PFPeA detected at 0.02µg/L Feb 2018. |
| 170. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Belmont (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Newcastle. 1 detection 2017. |
| 171. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Boat Harbour (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Port Stephens area. 1 detection 2018. |
| 172. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Branxton (NSW) | 33 | 0.004 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Town in the Hunter Region of NSW. 1 detection 2016. |
| 173. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Mount Hutton (NSW) | 36 | 0.004 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Lake Macquarie. 1 detection 2017. |
| 174. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Newcastle (NSW) | 36 | 0.002 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. 2 detections 2017. |
| 175. | August 2016 - December 2024 | Pelaw Main (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.00011 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Hamlet in the Hunter region. 1 detection 2017. |
| 176. | August 2016 - January 2025 | Thornton (NSW) | 35 | 0.004 | 0.000111 | 1.375% | Hunter Water. Suburb of Maitland. 1 detection 2020. |