At the centre of this crisis? A family of synthetic chemicals known as PFAS, which have been found in drinking water supplies in certain areas across the country — in some cases, for over three decades.
Here’s what you need to know about what’s really flowing through your pipes.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They a Problem?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are man-made chemicals used in products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, and industrial applications. Once released into the environment, they don’t break down — hence the nickname: “forever chemicals.”
According to toxicologists and global studies, PFAS exposure has been linked to:
- Cancers, particularly kidney and testicular cancer
- Immune system suppression
- Liver and thyroid problems
- Hormonal disruption
- Lower birth weights and developmental delays in children
While PFAS have been phased out of some consumer products, the firefighting foams used across Australian defence sites and airports have already left a lasting legacy.
How Did This Happen?
PFAS contamination in Australia has been traced back to firefighting foam runoff, especially from military bases, airfields, and training facilities.
The Channel 7 investigation revealed that some communities have had PFAS in their water for more than 30 years, with little to no warning from the government. Families living in these areas had no idea they were bathing in, cooking with, and drinking contaminated water.
ABC News confirmed that despite growing international concern, Australia still has no national drinking water standard for PFAS, and testing is inconsistent between states and councils.
What Makes This So Dangerous?
Unlike bacteria or chlorine — which can be boiled out or filtered easily — PFAS can’t be removed by standard water treatment processes. And the health effects come from cumulative, long-term exposure, making the issue especially insidious.
You won’t taste it. You won’t smell it. But you’ll absorb it — every day.
Is It Just in Rural Areas?
No. While rural and regional areas using groundwater are at particular risk, urban areas aren’t immune. PFAS have been detected in:
- Rainwater tanks
- Groundwater supplies
- Tap water in towns adjacent to contaminated sites
- Soil and food grown in affected areas
Given how widely firefighting foam was used over past decades, contamination plumes can travel far beyond the original source.
What Can You Do About It?
You can’t control what’s in your council’s water mains. But you can control what comes out of your own taps.
At The Good Water Group, we believe in proactive protection. That’s why we provide:
✅ Whole Home Water Filtration
Cleanses water across all taps and appliances, protecting your skin, clothes, dishes, and showers.
✅ Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis Systems
Targets PFAS and other contaminants with multi-stage purification, delivering safe, great-tasting water for drinking and cooking.
✅ Easy Home Testing
We offer a free water test kit to help you check your water quality in just minutes. No technician needed. Just dip, scan, and get answers.
Why Waiting Is Not an Option
If PFAS have been in some water supplies for over 30 years, how much longer will Australians be left in the dark?
Governments may eventually act. But your health — and your family’s — can’t afford to wait.
👉 Get peace of mind.
👉 Get clean water at every tap.
👉 Get started today with a free water test or expert consultation.
Because safe water shouldn’t be a headline — it should be a given.
