Free Defence water for PFAS worst hit extended by a year

The department has agreed to extend the scheme for an extra year from what was originally proposed.

But in October 2022, rainwater tank water top-ups will begin to cease.

That will make it five years since the first tanks went in.

Defence began supplying packaged water for the worst hit in December 2016, generally properties in a close radius of the Tindal RAAF Base and those on bores only.

Later on Defence replaced the weekly deliveries of packaged water to eligible properties with free rainwater tanks, and free tank top-ups during the dry season.

Defence has provided 96 rainwater tanks at 68 properties "as a precautionary measure to eliminate PFAS exposure pathways".

Katherine's drinking water supplies from the Katherine River and the water treatment plant's two contaminated bores will be fixed when a new $15 million treatment plant comes on line next year.

At the moment, Katherine continues on odds and evens water restrictions so safe drinking water is guaranteed.

As part of its rainwater tank scheme, Defence agreed to top-up tanks (as necessary) for a period of three years, followed by a review at the end of the three year period.

"Defence has reviewed this arrangement and has determined that it will continue to provide rainwater tank top-ups (as necessary) for an additional year," a Defence spokeswoman said.

"Rainwater tank top-ups will continue to be provided to properties for four years from the tank installation date at the respective property."

To be eligible for a rainwater tank you must be located in the "management area", not be connected to town water and rely on bore water for consumption.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.