Are There ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Sydney’s Water? Here’s What You Need to Know About PFAS

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. They’ve been used for decades in everything from non-stick cookware (like Teflon), stain-resistant fabrics, firefighting foams, food packaging, and even cosmetics.

They’re called ‘Forever Chemicals’ because they don’t easily break down in the environment or the human body. Once they’re there, they stay for a very long time.

Are PFAS in Sydney’s Water Supply?

Yes — PFAS have been detected in various water sources across Australia, including parts of New South Wales. While Sydney Water monitors for these contaminants and follows guidelines set by Australian health authorities, PFAS are still found in trace amounts in some drinking water supplies, especially in areas near airports, firefighting training sites, and industrial zones.

In fact, several NSW locations have been flagged for elevated PFAS levels, including RAAF bases and firefighting training areas — many of which are not far from Sydney’s water catchments.

Read More on the Sydney Water website here.

Why Should Northern Beaches Homeowners Care?

Even if you’re not next door to a known contamination site, PFAS can travel — through soil, air, and water — and accumulate in groundwater and waterways. Over time, trace exposure may contribute to health issues such as:

• Hormonal disruption

• Immune system effects

• Liver and kidney damage

• Increased risk of certain cancers

Given that most of us use tap water for drinking, cooking, washing produce, and making baby formula, even low-level exposure to PFAS over time can be a concern — particularly for families.

How Can You Reduce PFAS Exposure at Home?

The most effective way to reduce PFAS exposure from your tap water is to install a quality water filtration system. Not all filters are created equal — only specific systems are proven to reduce PFAS, such as:

• Reverse Osmosis systems (under-sink units that remove a wide range of contaminants)

• Whole-house filtration systems with activated carbon blocks designed to target PFAS

• Inline under-sink filters that attach directly to your kitchen mixer tap

At Northern Beaches Water Filters (a division of Jackal Plumbing), we supply and install filtration systems specifically chosen to combat PFAS and other chemical contaminants found in Australian water supplies. All our systems are installed by licensed local plumbers, and we provide honest, obligation-free advice based on your home’s needs.

PFAS and other Forever Chemicals aren’t going away any time soon — but you can take control of what comes out of your taps. If you’re living in the Northern Beaches or greater Sydney area, a professionally installed water filtration system is a smart investment in your family’s health and wellbeing.

Want to learn more about the best filter for your home?

👉 Visit Northern Beaches Water Filters
👉 Or call us today on 1300 522 525 for expert advice and local installation.