Is Melbourne Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, tap water in Melbourne, Australia is safe to drink. It is treated and regularly tested to meet Victoria’s drinking water quality standards.

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Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Melbourne’s water generally comes from protected mountain catchments and is disinfected before reaching homes. It may sometimes taste slightly chlorinated, but this is normal and not a safety concern.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

Australia is ranked as number 23 globally with a score of 90.9% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s tap water mainly comes from protected forested catchments east and northeast of the city. It is stored in major reservoirs including the Thomson, Upper Yarra, Cardinia, Sugarloaf, Maroondah and Silvan reservoirs.

The water is treated before being distributed through Melbourne’s supply network. During dry periods or when additional supply is needed, water from the Victorian Desalination Plant at Wonthaggi can also be added.

Melbourne Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Melbourne are generally safe to use and supplied with treated drinking water that meets Australian drinking water standards. They are maintained by local authorities and water providers, although temporary outages or maintenance issues can occasionally affect individual fountains.

Choose fountains that appear clean and well maintained, and let the water run briefly before drinking. Avoid using one if the tap is damaged, the water looks cloudy, or an official notice indicates it is out of service.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Melbourne. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Melbourne is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.