Surface water

• Surface water includes rivers and streams.
• Untreated river water is not recommended for drinking or cooking.
• The risk of illness is low for most people. It is higher for people with lower immune response, such as very young children, older people, and people with a chronic illness.
• These people should always boil water used for drinking, cooking and washing food.

Download the ‘Is untreated river water safe to drink?’ guide

How to ensure surface water is safe?

• To be certain that your water is safe, you may choose to have your water tested.
• Seek advice on collection, timing and the number of water samples from your local council.
• A fee may be charged for this service.
• 'One off' samples can be misleading.
• Untreated river water should always be boiled before using for drinking, cooking and washing food.
• Install water filters at your kitchen tap.

How can surface water get contaminated?

Surface waters are subject to biological and chemical contamination which may come from:

• stock access
• native/feral animals
• septic tanks
• dairies and piggeries
• stormwater run-off
• pesticides and fertilisers from farmland and forestry operations.

Where to get more information on surface water quality

• Your local council
• Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Wildlife and the Environment