Drinking water remains safe after bushfires
14 January 2026
The ongoing Walwa–Mt Lawson bushfires have understandably raised concerns about water quality, but we want to reassure you that your tap water is safe to drink.
Our water treatment systems are built to manage the challenges that come with bushfires, and we take extra steps to keep your water clean.
During and after fires, we carry out extra water quality checks. We monitor for nutrients, pesticides, herbicides, PFAS and metals. The biggest impact from bushfires is usually increased turbidity and organic matter from ash and runoff entering rivers and streams. To manage this, we turn off pumps at river offtakes before rainfall. This stops the first flush of runoff — which often carries ash and debris — from entering our reservoirs. Instead, we rely on stored water until river conditions improve.
Fire retardants have been used in Victoria for more than thirty years and are considered low in toxicity. They contain ingredients that act like fertilisers, which can increase nutrients in waterways and sometimes lead to algal blooms. However, our treatment plants remove these nutrients before the water reaches your tap.
We also use a treatment process called Powdered Activated Carbon. This helps absorb organic materials that might be in the raw water, adding another layer of protection against chemicals.
Your safety is our priority. With advanced treatment processes and careful monitoring, we make sure your drinking water stays clean and safe, even during times like this.
For more information about water quality or PFAS monitoring, click here.