In June 2025, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) released updated health-based guideline values for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. These updates are part of ongoing efforts to manage PFAS exposure and protect public health.

Key Changes:

• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA): 200 nanograms per litre (ng/L)
• Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS): 8 ng/L
• Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS): 30 ng/L
• Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS): 1000 ng/L    

These values are based on current scientific evidence and aim to minimize health risks associated with PFAS exposure through drinking water. 

Key Takeaways: Latest PFAS Update for Environmental Professionals:

• Revised Guidelines: The NHMRC has updated the health-based guideline values for specific PFAS compounds in drinking water.
• Monitoring and Compliance: Water utilities and environmental professionals should review and adjust monitoring programs to ensure compliance with the new guideline values.
• Data Management: Accurate data collection and management are essential for assessing PFAS levels and ensuring water safety.

Glossary:

• PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): A group of human-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products for their resistance to heat, water, and oil.
• PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid): A type of PFAS previously used in manufacturing non-stick cookware and other products.
• PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid): A PFAS compound formerly used in stain repellents and firefighting foams.
• PFHxS (Perfluorohexane Sulfonic Acid): A PFAS chemical used in firefighting foams and other applications.
• PFBS (Perfluorobutane Sulfonic Acid): A shorter-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS in various products.
• ng/L (Nanograms per Litre): A unit of measurement indicating the concentration of a substance in water.  

ESdat Latest PFAS Update:

ESdat has incorporated the updated PFAS guideline values into its system, allowing users to compare laboratory results against the latest standards. This integration facilitates efficient data analysis and compliance monitoring for environmental professionals.

ESdat: A Powerful Alternative to EQuIS

ESdat Environmental Data Management Software is a leading alternative to EarthSoft's EQuIS platform, offering a more intuitive and user-friendly interface specifically designed for environmental professionals. ESdat supports automated laboratory data handling, real-time data validation, and seamless integration with field apps, mapping tools, and regulatory standards. With pre-loaded global guidelines, streamlined reporting, and no-cost onboarding for labs, ESdat delivers a comprehensive and efficient solution for managing complex environmental datasets without the steep learning curve often associated with other systems.

For more information, please refer to the NHMRC's official publication:  https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/environmental-health/water/PFAS-review.

Environmental Standards

Categories

Data Management

Keywords

Drinking Water, Australia, PFAS