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Sydney Tap Water Study Detects 21 New PFAS Chemicals
You might have seen on the news that a new analysis of Sydney’s drinking water has revealed the presence of at least 31 different PFAS chemicals, including 21 never before recorded in Australian tap water. In a world-first finding, the researchers also found one PFAS compound that has never been detected in tap water globally.
At Go For Zero, we’re mad researchers, hence why we only stock toxin-free and low-waste products. We believe in keeping you informed and offering real solutions, not scare tactics.
That's why you can learn more below about the findings, why they matter, and the filter we use to remove PFAS from our tap water.
What Are PFAS and Why Do They Matter?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, waterproof gear, and industrial manufacturing. They’re called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down, staying in the environment and our bodies for decades.
While Australian guidelines consider current exposure levels low, international regulators like theWHO and U.S. EPA are far stricter. Australia allowsdouble the PFAS limit of the U.S.!The U.S. sets its PFOS/PFOA drinking water limit at 4 parts per trillion (ppt), while Australia will allow 8 ppt from 2025. Yikes!
What Did Sydney's Water Study Find?
The UNSW team collected 32 tap water samples and 10 bottled water samples across Sydney’s catchment areas in early 2024, including Ryde, Potts Hill, Prospect, and North Richmond. Their analysis revealed several significant results.
They found 21 new PFAS compounds in Australian tap water for the first time.
- One compound, 6:2 diPAP, was detected in tap water globally for the first time, raising concerns as early studies suggest possible thyroid and reproductive effects.
- Another, 3:3 FTCA, a short-chain breakdown product from firefighting foams, was recorded in Australian tap water for the first time, with only one other case ever reported worldwide.
The study also flagged PFOS, a legacy firefighting chemical and known carcinogen, detected in North Richmond at 6 parts per trillion (ppt), which is below Australia’s guideline of 8 ppt, but above the U.S. EPA’s stricter 4 ppt advisory limit.
Meanwhile, PFBA, a short-chain PFAS and common breakdown product, was present in every Sydney tap water sample. Though PFBA accumulates less in the body than long-chain PFAS, early studies suggest potential impacts on liver, thyroid, and developmental health.
Why Does This Matter?
Dr. Lisa Hua, who led the laboratory analysis, stressed that, while concentrations were low, the importance of investing in new technologies that can remove PFAS before they enter ecosystems and drinking supplies.
Although Sydney’s Water meets Australian PFAS safety standards, some samples exceed international safety benchmarks. Lead researcher Professor William Donald warned that small tweaks to PFAS structures create “new” compounds, but each one requires fresh toxicology testing, making regulation a game of chemical whack-a-mole.
The Best PFAS Water Filter in Australia
The findings also highlight how regulations differ worldwide. In the U.S., limits for PFOS and PFOA are at 4 ppt, effectively considering no level of PFAS exposure as safe. By contrast, Australia’s updated guideline will allow 8 ppt for PFOS in 2025, double the U.S. limit.
For now, the official line remains that Sydney’s water is safe to drink under Australian standards. But as this latest study shows, advanced testing methods are uncovering more chemicals than ever before, prompting an urgent need for research, regulation, and transparency.
For households wanting extra protection when it comes to filtering PFAS and other contaminants from their tap, one of the most effective and affordable solutions available in Australia is the Tappwater Tap Filter.
Its activated carbon block technology reduces over 95% of PFAS, over 99% microplastics, up to 90% of fluoride, as well as heavy metals, chlorine, and many other contaminants, all while improving taste. You can see the results here
Unlike bulky systems, Tappwater screws directly onto 95% of kitchen taps for instant safer drinking water. Tested against PFAS and other pollutants, it’s a simple way to cut exposure while avoiding bottled water and plastic waste.
I use this filter in my own home and at our warehouse for the team, and I think every household should have one!
With love, Ellie x
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FAQ: PFAS in Sydney Tap Water
What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic “forever chemicals” used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and industrial products. They don’t break down naturally and can stay in the environment and human body for decades.
How many PFAS were found in Sydney’s water?
A UNSW Sydney study found 31 different PFAS chemicals in Sydney’s tap water, including 21 never before recorded in Australia and one compound never detected in tap water globally.
Which new PFAS compounds were discovered?
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6:2 diPAP – first time detected in tap water worldwide, with early research suggesting possible thyroid and reproductive effects.
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3:3 FTCA – first detection in Australian tap water and only the second worldwide, linked to firefighting foam breakdown.
Is Sydney’s water safe to drink?
Under Australian guidelines, Sydney’s water is considered safe. However, some samples exceeded international safety benchmarks. For example, PFOS was found at 6 ppt, below Australia’s limit of 8 ppt but above the U.S. EPA’s stricter 4 ppt limit.
What is the difference between Australian and U.S. PFAS standards?
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U.S. EPA: PFOS/PFOA limit = 4 ppt (effectively no safe exposure).
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Australia (2025 update): PFOS limit = 8 ppt, which is double the U.S. allowance.
Why does this research matter?
The study shows that improved testing methods now detect PFAS at parts per trillion. This raises concerns as new PFAS variants keep appearing, making regulation a “whack-a-mole” challenge. Researchers call for broader monitoring and better removal technologies.
What’s the best way to reduce PFAS in your home water?
Installing a certified water filter is one of the most effective ways to reduce PFAS exposure. At Go For Zero, we recommend and use the Tappwater Tap Filter, which removes PFAS, microplastics, heavy metals, chlorine, and more ... while reducing waste from bottled water.
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