Figtree Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Sydney Water supplies the Figtree area, part of the Wollongong region in New South Wales. The primary water source is the Warragamba Dam on the Warragamba River, with additional supply from reservoirs like Prospect, Avon, Cordeaux, Woronora, and Wingecarribee. Water undergoes treatment at facilities such as the Prospect Water Filtration Plant. This plant uses a multi-stage process including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection before the water is distributed to residents through a vast network of pipes. The catchment area for this supply system extends across the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands, feeding into the Nepean-Hawkesbury River system.

The geology influencing Figtree's water is dominated by the Hawkesbury Sandstone, a quartz-rich formation from the Triassic period. This sandstone sits atop the Narrabeen Group sediments, and in some parts of the catchment, volcanic basalts are also present. The predominantly sandstone geology means very little calcium and magnesium dissolve into the water. This results in a naturally soft water supply with low mineral content, requiring minimal adjustments during the treatment process.

Because the water is soft, you'll notice soap and shampoo lather up easily, and it tends to be less drying on the skin and hair. You're also less likely to deal with limescale buildup on appliances like kettles, coffee machines, and showerheads, which can help extend their lifespan. There's no need for a water softener, as the water's natural softness prevents common issues associated with hard water, such as scale deposits in pipes or water heaters. The water quality is excellent, with a pH of 7.8, very low turbidity, and a total dissolved solids count of 72.3 mg/L, well within guidelines. Sydney Water ensures the water is also fluoridated at 1.03 mg/L for dental health and adheres strictly to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.