Persistent PFAS Contamination Alarms Blue Mountains Residents

Jon Dee, a resident of the Blue Mountains, is deeply concerned following blood tests that revealed high levels of PFAS, toxic chemicals linked to cancer.

PFAInsight: Breaking Down the Contamination Crisis

Following the discovery of elevated PFAS levels in Medlow Dam, Jon Dee and two other locals initiated their own testing. The results from June 2024 showed significantly higher PFAS concentrations at the Cascade filtration plant compared to Sydney’s water sources, though they met Australia’s acceptable limits. The United States, however, enforces stricter standards aiming for zero PFAS presence, specifically targeting PFOA and PFOS.

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” pose long-term health risks. Exposure has been linked to increased cancer risks, kidney dysfunction, hormonal and immune system alterations, and developmental issues in children.

Community Advocacy and Government Response

Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) has been advocating on Jon Dee’s behalf. This includes calls for improved water treatment facilities, more frequent water testing, and transparency in sharing monitoring data. The organization also pushed for safety standards more in line with those in the U.S.

As a result of these efforts, the NSW Government installed a new PFAS treatment system at the Cascade filtration plant. However, community members remain anxious, especially after finding high PFAS levels in their blood tests.

Jon Dee’s Concern and Advocacy

Jon Dee’s blood test showed a PFAS concentration of 14ng/ml, notably higher than residents near other contaminated sites in Australia, including areas near defense bases where PFAS-containing firefighting foam was used.

“Discovering our high PFAS levels was a real shock. I’m now really concerned for my kids and my wife and want to have them tested too.”

Jon Dee – Blue Mountains resident and EDO client

EDO has urged the NSW Environment Protection Authority and NSW Health Minister Ryan Park to offer free blood testing to all residents wishing to be tested. Dee emphasizes the need for full disclosure, stating, “The NSW Government should step up and do the right thing and provide voluntary testing for the local community, so people can understand their exposure levels. This information will be empowering for our community that has been deeply worried and left in the dark.”

Investigative Efforts and Future Recommendations

Late last year, both the Senate and the NSW Parliament launched Select Committee Inquiries into PFAS contamination. EDO submitted detailed reports to these committees advocating for robust regulations, transparency, and the inclusion of a Right to a Healthy Environment in human rights legislation. Findings and recommendations from these committees are expected in August 2025.

Taking Action to Protect Blue Mountains Communities

It is crucial for the NSW Government to address these concerns and take proactive steps to safeguard the health of local residents. Providing free and accessible PFAS blood testing will empower the community and help them make informed decisions about their own health and that of their families.

Supporting regulatory reforms and adopting more stringent standards can help mitigate the continued presence of these harmful chemicals in the Blue Mountains water supply.

Join the Call for Change

The situation in the Blue Mountains highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and action regarding environmental contamination. We urge residents and concerned parties to stay informed and engage with advocacy groups like Environmental Defenders Office.

Please share your thoughts, questions, and experiences related to this issue in the comments below. Let’s work together to ensure the health and safety of our communities.

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