Known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), this group of 15,000 synthetic, highly toxic chemicals resists heat, stains, and grease. They’re called “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment.

PFAs detected in Blue Mountains

The concentration of PFAS found was approximately 300 times greater than that in Sydney’s principal drinking water supply, yet it still complied with Australian standards for safe drinking water.

Possible sources of the contamination in the Adams Creek and Medlow catchments were identified as two separate motor vehicle accident sites along the Great Western Highway in 1992 and 2002 near Medlow Bath, as well as the Medlow Bath Rural Fire Brigade station.

‘Lack of transparency’ from Sydney Water and WaterNSW

“It’s been shown that Sydney Water and WaterNSW have not been fully transparent with the PFAS testing of our local drinking water,” he told AAP.

He called for a single, independent statewide authority with comprehensive responsibility for overseeing PFAS contamination management and removal.

What happens now?

Steep terrain, potential PFAS spread over a wide geographical region and extensive disturbance of high-value ecological habitat are all flagged as barriers to remediation.

Is it safe to drink water from these areas?