ADWG (Australian Drinking Water Guidelines)
The national guidelines published by the NHMRC that set quality standards for Australian drinking water.
The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) are published by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and provide the framework for drinking water quality management in Australia.
What the guidelines cover
The ADWG set guideline values for over 200 characteristics across several categories:
- Microbial (e.g., E. coli, total coliforms) — must not be detected
- Chemical (e.g., lead, nitrate, PFAS) — maximum acceptable concentrations
- Physical (e.g., turbidity, colour, TDS) — mostly aesthetic targets
- Radiological — limits for radioactive substances
Health vs aesthetic guidelines
- Health guidelines: Set to protect against adverse health effects over a lifetime of consumption. Exceedances require immediate investigation and action.
- Aesthetic guidelines: Relate to taste, odour, and appearance. Exceeding an aesthetic guideline does not necessarily pose a health risk.
How they’re used
The ADWG are not legally enforceable nationally — each state and territory incorporates them into their own regulatory framework. Water utilities use a risk-management approach (Framework for Management of Drinking Water Quality) rather than relying solely on end-point testing.
Updates
The ADWG are periodically updated as new evidence emerges. Notable recent updates include stricter PFAS limits in 2025 and ongoing reviews of microplastics and emerging contaminants.
Check Your Water
See how adwg (australian drinking water guidelines) levels compare in your suburb with real water quality data.
Disclaimer: Glossary definitions are provided for general educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional guidance. For specific health concerns about your drinking water, consult a qualified health professional. See our Terms of Use.