PFAS Information

What is PFAS? 

Per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) such as PFOS and PFOA are a group of manufactured chemicals.

PFAS have been used since the 1950s in a range of common household products and specialty applications, including in the manufacture of non-stick cookware, fabric, furniture and carpet stain protection applications, food packaging, and some industrial processes including certain types of fire-fighting foams.

However the substances are not manufactured in Australia and are no longer directly used in consumer products.

National health-based guideline values have been established for PFAS in drinking water. These guideline values are very low, and are based on an assumption of lifetime consumption at the maximum tolerable daily intake. PFAS are found at very low levels in the blood of the general population all over the world.

To find out more visit the Queensland Government website.

Could I be affected by PFAS?

Historically, Whitsunday Regional Council has worked closely with the Queensland Government in response to the detection of PFAS (per- and poly-fluorinated substances) in the environment.

Extensive testing confirmed that PFAS has not been detected in the drinking water network. The water supply continues to be safe and compliant with national drinking water guidelines.

Council continues to proactively monitor and manage potential PFAS risks as part of our Drinking Water Quality Management Plan (DWQMP). Regular testing is carried out across the region’s water networks, with results published annually to ensure transparency and community confidence.

We remain in ongoing communication with Queensland Health and the Department of Environment and Science (DES), who lead broader investigations and provide expert guidance.

Council takes all PFAS matters seriously and is committed to ensuring a safe and reliable drinking water supply for the Whitsunday Region.

If you have any health concerns, please speak to your GP or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84). For water supply enquiries, contact Council on 1300 WRC QLD (972 753).

To learn more about PFAS and drinking water guidelines, visit the Water Services Association of Australia website.