Is Perth Tap Water Safe? Quality Report 2025

Tap water safety is a growing concern for households across Western Australia. With changing climate conditions, aging infrastructure, desalination dependence, and regional water differences, many residents are asking an important question in 2025:

Is Perth tap water safe to drink?

This detailed quality report explains the current state of Perth’s tap water, what affects its taste and safety, how it compares across WA regions, and whether investing in a water filtration system is worth it for your home.

Overview of Perth Tap Water in 2025

Perth’s tap water is regulated and treated under strict Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). The main water sources include:

• Desalinated seawater

• Groundwater aquifers

• Surface water reservoirs

While the water is technically safe to drink, many households experience issues with taste, chlorine smell, mineral buildup, and sediment, especially in fast-growing suburbs like Yanchep and Alkimos.

This is why water filtration services and whole-home water filters are becoming increasingly popular across WA.

Where Does Perth’s Tap Water Come From?

Unlike eastern states, Perth relies heavily on desalination due to low rainfall.

Main Water Sources:

• Desalination plants (largest contributor)

• Groundwater (bore water)

• Surface catchments (limited supply)

Desalinated water is safe, but the remineralisation process and added disinfectants can affect taste and long-term plumbing health.

Perth Tap Water Quality Report 2025 (Summary Table)

Water Quality Factor	Perth Metro (2025)	Regional WA (Varies)	What It Means for Homes
Safety Compliance	Meets ADWG standards	Meets standards	Safe to drink
Chlorine Levels	Moderate to high	Moderate	Can affect taste & smell
Hardness (Minerals)	Medium–High	High in bore areas	Scale buildup on taps
Heavy Metals	Trace levels	Higher in bore water	Filtration recommended
Sediment	Low–Moderate	Moderate–High	Can clog pipes & appliances
Taste & Odour	Often noticeable	Often strong	Improves with filtration

Is Perth Tap Water Safe to Drink Without Filtration?

Yes, but with limitations.

While Perth tap water is legally safe, many residents choose water filtration systems due to:

• Chlorine taste and smell

• Mineral hardness

• Old plumbing infrastructure

• Bore water contamination risks in regional WA

• Health concerns for children and elderly residents

Filtration improves water quality, taste, and appliance longevity, especially in households using water daily for cooking and drinking.

Regional Water Quality Differences in Western Australia

Perth

Generally safe, but high chlorine and mineral content impact taste.

Yanchep & Alkimos

New infrastructure but strong mineral presence due to groundwater blending.

Kimberley & Derby

Often reliant on WA bore water filters due to naturally occurring minerals and metals.

Busselton

Good water quality, though sediment and hardness remain common concerns.

This variation makes local water filtration service assessments essential.

Common Contaminants Found in WA Tap Water

Although within safe limits, Perth and WA tap water may contain:

• Chlorine and chloramines

• Calcium and magnesium (hard water)

• Iron and manganese

• Trace heavy metals

• Sediment and sand particles

These elements are not always harmful short-term, but can cause skin irritation, dry hair, plumbing damage, and unpleasant taste over time.

Best Water Filtration Systems for Perth Homes

1. Whole-Home Water Filters

Ideal for families wanting filtered water from every tap.

Benefits:

• Protects plumbing & appliances

• Improves shower and laundry water

• Reduces chlorine & sediment

2. Under-Sink Filtration Systems

Perfect for drinking and cooking water.

Benefits:

• High filtration accuracy

• Affordable & space-saving

• Improves taste instantly

3. WA Bore Water Filters

Essential for regional areas using groundwater.

Benefits:

• Removes iron, sediment & metals

• Protects pumps and pipes

Eco-Friendly Water Filtration in Western Australia

Sustainability is a growing focus in 2025. Eco-friendly water filtration options help:

• Reduce plastic bottle waste

• Lower carbon footprint

• Save money long-term

• Support sustainable water usage

Modern filtration systems are designed to work efficiently with desalinated water, making them ideal for Perth households.

Do You Need a Professional Water Filtration Service?

A professional water filtration service ensures:

• Correct system selection

• Local water testing

• Proper installation

• Ongoing maintenance

This is especially important in areas like Kimberley, Derby, and Alkimos, where water quality varies significantly.

FAQs –

1. Is Perth tap water safe to drink in 2025?

Yes, it meets Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, but filtration improves taste and quality.

2. Why does Perth tap water taste like chlorine?

Chlorine is used to disinfect water and keep it safe during distribution.

3. Is Perth water considered hard water?

Yes, Perth water is moderately hard due to mineral content.

4. Do I need a water filter in Western Australia?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended for taste, health, and appliance protection.

5. Is bore water safe to drink in WA?

Bore water requires proper filtration to remove metals and sediment.

6. What is the best filtration system for Perth homes?

Whole-home filters for full coverage or under-sink systems for drinking water.

7. Does filtered water save money long-term?

Yes, it reduces bottled water costs and plumbing maintenance.

Final Verdict:

Perth tap water is safe—but not perfect.

In 2025, the smartest approach is combining safe municipal water with a reliable water filtration system tailored to your location. Whether you live in Perth, Yanchep, Alkimos, Busselton, or regional WA, filtered water ensures better taste, healthier living, and long-term savings.