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Residents of Warrumbungle Shire can rest assured, as the latest PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) test results for the local drinking water supply show no cause for concern.
“Recent results from PFAS testing of local drinking water supplies within the Warrumbungle Shire Council Local Government Area (LGA) have now been received,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Kathryn Rindfleish. “These test results offer strong reassurances to residents that there is no cause for concern with the drinking water across our LGA.”
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in various consumer products, such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, water-resistant fabrics, and personal care items. These chemicals have been in widespread use since the 1950s due to their resistance to heat, water, and stains. However, PFAS are persistent in the environment and can be challenging to break down.
In light of recent media coverage surrounding PFAS in drinking water supplies, there has been a review of safe limits in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). New draft limits have been proposed, as outlined below:
Chemical
Existing ADWG Health Concentration Limit
Draft Updated ADWG Health Concentration Limit
PFOS
70 ng/L (Less than 0.07 micrograms per litre of PFOS and PFHxS combined)
4 ng/L
PFHxS
30 ng/L
PFOA
560 ng/L
200 ng/L
PFBS
No limit specified
1000 ng/L
While the New South Wales Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) continues to investigate PFAS contamination at various locations across the state, there are currently no concerns or investigations related to PFAS in the Warrumbungle Shire’s water catchment areas.
"I want to assure all residents that our local water supply remains safe and within the current guidelines. We are committed to providing safe drinking water, and these recent test results show no cause for concern. The health and well-being of our community is our top priority,” Cr Rindfleish stated.
In late October 2024, Warrumbungle Shire Council proactively engaged with the NSW Health program to conduct PFAS testing. The results, received in December, confirmed that no PFAS levels were detected above either the current or proposed safe limits in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
"The results are very reassuring, and we remain committed to ensuring the ongoing safety of our water supply. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep our community informed of any developments,” Cr Rindfleish added.
For more information about PFAS, residents are encouraged to visit the NSW EPA website at www.epa.nsw.gov.au or the NSW Health website for further details on PFAS in drinking water.
Warrumbungle Shire Council will continue to update residents as new information becomes available and remains dedicated to ensuring the safety of its water supply.
For more information regarding PFAS testing please contact the Warrumbungle Water Team on (02) 6849 2000.
Click here to download media release
Last Updated: 15 Jan 2025