PFAS

The Hon. S.L. GAME (14:54): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before directing a question to the Attorney-General, representing the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, regarding PFAS levels and testing protocols in South Australia.

Leave granted.

The Hon. S.L. GAME: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are environmental pollutants, also known as 'forever chemicals', linked to significant health risks. South Australia was the first state to ban all fluorinated PFAS-containing firefighting foams in January 2018. The South Australian Environment Protection Authority says that in regional areas where water is sourced from groundwater PFAS contamination is not present. Given this assurance, it remains crucial to understand the frequency and thoroughness of PFAS testing across the state, particularly in areas where groundwater is a drinking water source.

International standards, particularly in the United States, are more stringent regarding PFAS levels in drinking water, with enforceable maximum levels set at four parts per trillion for certain PFAS variants, as opposed to Australia's maximum levels set at 70 parts per trillion. This raises questions about whether South Australia's current standards and practices are sufficient for public health. My questions to the Attorney-General, representing the minister, are:

1. Have PFAS levels been tested in drinking water and groundwater across South Australia and, if so, how frequently is testing conducted, particularly in areas where groundwater is used as a source of drinking water?

2. Given the federal government's commissioning of the NHMRC to review PFAS guidelines, will the minister commit to adopting the recommendations from this review, especially if they advise that Australia adheres to stricter international standards, such as those set by the United States?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (14:56): I thank the honourable member for her questions. I will be sure to refer the questions about PFAS to the minister in the other place and bring back a reply.