Is my water safe to drink?
Understanding a water test report can be confusing. The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) outline the standards for safe drinking water. Visit NHMRC guidelines for more information.
Who can use your services?
Our laboratory services are available to local councils, government agencies, businesses and individuals.
We test water from tanks, bores, pools, irrigation systems and industries such as manufacturing and healthcare.
Who should test their water?
Water testing is essential for:
- Local governments – To ensure safe drinking water and wastewater management.
- Commercial swimming pool owners – Hotels, hospitals, and public pools must maintain safe water quality.
- Developers and construction projects – For new water mains and building sites.
- Trade waste businesses – Car washes, laundries, food and beverage industries need to monitor waste discharge.
- Property owners – Those using rainwater tanks, bore water, or stock water should test regularly.
Why should I have my water tested?
- Health and safety – Ensure your drinking water is free from harmful bacteria and chemicals.
- Stock health – Poor water quality can affect livestock health.
- Plant growth – Water quality impacts crops, nurseries, and irrigation systems.
- Protecting plumbing – Hard water and corrosion can damage pipes and equipment.
- Aesthetic concerns – Unusual taste, smell, or colour may indicate water quality issues.
- Future sustainability – Monitoring water helps protect natural water sources.
How does water testing work?
- Collect a sample – Use our bottles if needed. Follow proper handling guidelines.
- Complete a sample form – Download, print and fill out the submission form.
- Deliver the sample – Drop it off at our lab or use a courier.
- Pay the fees – Payment must be made via EFTPOS at the time of sample submission.
- Receive results – Results are typically available within 10 working days.
How long does testing take?
Most standard tests are completed within 10 days after receiving the sample.
Is my water corrosive?
Corrosive water can damage pipes, appliances, and plumbing.
Signs include:
- Copper pipe leaks and pitting.
- Blue-green stains around taps or fixtures.
Why is my water blue or green?
Discolouration is often due to copper pipe corrosion, affected by water chemistry and temperature.
When can I drop off water samples?
Samples can be delivered Monday to Friday, from 8am to 2.30pm, excluding public holidays.
What levels are safe for drinking water?
The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines define safe water standards. Visit the ADWG guidelines for more details.
Why is my water cloudy?
Cloudy water is usually caused by air bubbles in the pipes and is not harmful. The water should clear after a few moments.
Why is my water discoloured?
A brownish tint in drinking water is usually due to iron or manganese. While it may look unappealing, the water is still safe to drink.
What is hard water?
Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can cause scaling on appliances and plumbing. Water hardness levels are measured as:
| Hardness (mg/L CaCO3) |
Water quality |
| Less than 60 |
Soft, but may be corrosive |
| 60 - 200 |
Good quality |
| 200 - 500 |
Increasing scaling issues |
| Over 500 |
Severe scaling |
Why do I see black particles in my water?
Black particles could be from rubber hose degradation in braided flexible pipes under sinks or bathrooms. If widespread, it could indicate corrosion in the main water supply.
Still have questions?
If your question isn’t listed here, please fill out our online enquiry form or contact our laboratory for more information.