Drinking water quality

We use water in many ways in our daily lives. It is vital that the water we drink, bathe in, swim in or fish from is safe. Drinking water is considered safe if it is free from:

• harmful levels of disease-causing micro-organisms
• physical, chemical and radiological contamination.

Types of water sources

Find information about:

• mains drinking water
• rainwater tanks and other drinking water supplies
• lakes, rivers, oceans, public swimming pools and public spa pools.

Rainwater tanks and other drinking water supplies

If you source your drinking water from a rainwater tank or another raw untreated source, please make sure it is safe to drink. 

• Many Tasmanians draw their household water supply from rainwater tanks, nearby waterways, bores or dams.
• These untreated water sources have the potential to carry harmful germs, chemicals or other contaminants that may make you sick.
• There are steps you can take to help you and your family stay healthy.
• These are particularly important if your household contains young children, older people or people with a chronic illness.

The Director of Public Health has standing advice for Tasmanians who drink from:

• rainwater tanks
• ground water
• surface water
• dams.

Important water safety contacts

• Public Health Hotline: phone 1800 671 738.
• To report a suspected pollution incident, call the Environment Protection Authority on 1800 005 171.

To discuss the safety of a waterway or body, please contact your local council.