Water fluoridation is a safe and effective way to provide a base level of prevention of tooth decay across the population. Overall, 93% of NSW is fluoridated, however the percentage is sigificantly lower (and fluoridation is less reliable) in regional and remote areas which is why water fluoridation remains on our advocacy agenda.
ADA NSW continues to support NSW Health and local communities in NSW and the ACT to introduce or maintain community water fluoridation.
Met with NSW Health Water Unit about fluoride status, February 2025
ADA NSW Vice President Dr Jodie Olivier and ADA NSW Director and Advocacy Committee Chair Dr Sophie Halpin met with NSW Health Water Unit representatives to discuss the current status of fluoridation across NSW.
In particular, they reviewed the progress of those regions that are experiencing prolonged disruptions to water fluoridation. ADA NSW appreciates the ongoing collaborative relationship with the Water Unit.
Interview with the Mudgee Guardian about fluoridation, January 2025
ADA NSW Vice-President Dr Jodie Olivier was interviewed by local media in the Central West about water fluoridation. The Mudgee Guardian reported that Mudgee’s drinking water hasn’t been properly fluoridated in more than four years.
Dr Olivier told the publication that it is concerning fluoride has been missing from Mudgee’s water for so long and highlighted the importance of water fluoridation.
Water fluoridation feature article, October 2024
Our October/November edition of NSW Dentist featured a behind the scenes look at water fluoridation inside the Wagga Wagga water treatment plant. It included a day in the life of a fluoridation plant officer and how they make sure water is safe and potable of the people of Wagga Wagga.
Letters sent to several councils about water fluoridation, June 2024
The ADA NSW Advocacy Committee sent letters to several councils across regional NSW congratulating them on introducing water fluoridation.
Blayney Shire (Central Tablelands Water), Lithgow City Council, Tamworth Regional Council and Gunnedah Shire Council have recently implemented water fluoridation either at specific water utilities or for the entire town.
The Committee has sought updates on regional fluoridation from the NSW Health Water Unit and will be working on approaching councils on this issue.
Another round of letters was sent out in January 2025 to thank councils fluoridating their community water supplies for their support and commitment to the health and wellbeing of their communities.
