Relevant: Jervis Bay Territory residents and visitors
Topic: Jervis Bay Territory drinking water
Testing for November and December 2021 shows that Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) levels in JBT drinking water remain many times lower than levels recommended by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
The Guidelines are set by the National Health and Medical Research Council. They are regularly updated to make sure they are based on the latest scientific evidence. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications undertakes routine monthly testing for PFAS in JBT’s drinking water and engages an independent laboratory, accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities, to do this work.
This monthly testing continues to show drinking water is well within the national guidelines. The health and safety of JBT residents and visitors remains our first priority. We will continue to keep the local community informed on testing results.
| Sum of PFOS & PFHxS | PFOA | |
|---|---|---|
| JBT drinking water November 2021 test results |
0.00035 micrograms/litre | <0.0005 micrograms/litre |
| JBT drinking water December 2021 test results |
<0.0002 micrograms/litre | <0.0005 micrograms/litre |
| Australian Drinking Water Guidelines Health values for PFAS |
0.07 micrograms/litre | 0.56 micrograms/litre |
*PFOS=Perfluorooctane Sulfonate, PFHxS=Perfluorohexane Sulfonate, PFOA=Perfluorooctanoic Acid
For general information on PFAS health effects and exposure pathways, contact the Department of Health on 1800 941 180, or see the fact sheet: https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/ohp-pfas.htm#pfas.