Is Sydney Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Yes, Sydney's tap water meets Australian Drinking Water Guidelines set by the National Health and Medical Research Council. It undergoes rigorous treatment and testing.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water is sourced mainly from protected catchments in the Blue Mountains and Warragamba Dam. These natural reservoirs minimize contamination risks before treatment.

Water quality is monitored regularly for bacteria, chemicals, and metals. Sydney Water reports consistently show compliance with health and safety standards. It is safe to drink.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

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 Sydney, Australia

Sydney’s main tap water sources are the Warragamba Dam, Blue Mountains catchments, and the Upper Nepean catchment. These provide high-quality raw water.

Warragamba Dam is the largest, supplying about 80% of Sydney’s water. It stores rainwater from the Warragamba River catchment area.

Additional sources include smaller dams and treated water from desalination and recycled water projects, ensuring supply reliability during droughts or high demand periods.

Sydney Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Sydney receive treated tap water, complying with health and safety standards. The water itself is safe to drink.

However, fountain cleanliness varies. Surfaces may harbor germs, so avoid direct mouth contact and use hands or cups to reduce contamination risk.

Regular maintenance by local authorities ensures fountains remain hygienic. Users are generally advised to use discretion and personal hygiene when drinking in public.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Sydney. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

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 Sydney 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.