PFAS

In reply to the Hon. S.L. GAME ().30 October 2024).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector): The Minister for Climate, Environment and Water has advised:

1. Information regarding the testing of PFAS levels in drinking water, as well as groundwater that is used for drinking water, is the responsibility of the Minister for Housing and Urban Development (SA Water).

The EPA has analysed groundwater samples collected in selected assessment areas between 2019 and 2024 for PFAS and other chemical substances. All EPA assessment area reports are made available on the EPA website.

In addition, the EPA is aware that other work has been undertaken on behalf of landowners by independent environmental consultants. This includes analysis for PFAS, along with other chemical substances, in groundwater samples across South Australia. Where PFAS concentrations trigger reporting requirements to the EPA, this information is available via the EPA public register.

2. The decision on whether to adopt the recommendations from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to review PFAS guidelines is the responsibility of the Minister for Health.