Fluoride will be introduced to Gunnedah Shire’s town water supply from Monday, March 11, 2024 following a comprehensive testing and training process.
Records show 96% of the population of New South Wales has access to fluoridated water, with New South Wales Health supporting fluoridation of drinking water as a safe and effective way to help prevent tooth decay in the community.
Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Water Services Michael Ludlow said Gunnedah’s new $8 million water treatment facility allowed the centralised treatment of town water for the first time.
“This modern centre has been designed and constructed to ensure consistent treatment of town water, and to allow for the introduction of fluoridation,” Mr Ludlow said.
“The new centre has undergone rigorous testing and a qualified contractor will supervise and monitor the initial implementation as Council staff complete their final ‘live’ training.
“Gunnedah Shire has the benefit of using the decades of experience of other water suppliers and is implementing a system that is already in place across most of the state and the country. Testing will be done daily in accordance with NSW Health regulations.”
Fluoride has no taste or smell, and will not have any noticeable impact on drinking water.
Fluoridation is supported by many dental and health organisations, including the National Health and Medical Research Council, the World Health Organization, the Australian Dental Association, the Australian Medical Association, the Public Health Association of Australia, and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
