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Wollongong Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Water Hardness

soft

~0–59 mg/L

Soft

estimated · not lab-verified

Source

reservoir

pH Level

7

neutral = 7.0

Lead

0.005 mg/L

✓ Below action level

TDS

15 mg/L

Est. Daily Cost

A$0.10

energy & soap waste

soft~0–59 mg/LSoft · est.

0–60

mg/L

Soft

61–120

mg/L

Moderately Hard

121–180

mg/L

Hard

180+

mg/L

Very Hard

Appliance Damage Report

In Wollongong, your appliances are currently losing 4% efficiency due to mineral buildup.

ApplianceIn WollongongSoft Water CityEfficiency Loss
Kettle
8.2 yrs
8.5 yrs-4%
Washing Machine
11.5 yrs
12 yrs-4%
Water Heater
14.4 yrs
15 yrs-4%

Regional Water Comparison

How Wollongong compares to its nearest neighbours

CityHardnessRiskSource
Wollongong, New South Wales≈ 0–59 mg/L🟢 Softreservoir
Wollongong city centre, New South Wales≈ 120–179 mg/L🟠 Hardreservoir
Figtree, New South Wales≈ 0–60 mg/L🟢 Softreservoir
Woonona, New South Wales≈ 0–60 mg/L🟢 Softreservoir
Dapto, New South Wales≈ 0–60 mg/L🟢 Softreservoir

National Benchmark

How Wollongong compares to the Australia average

BenchmarkHardnessAppliance Risk
Wollongong≈ 0–59 mg/L🟢 None
Australia National Avg125 mg/L🟠 Moderate
Boronia Top Rated5 mg/L🟢 None

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What Makes Wollongong's Water Unique?

Local geology and source profile

Source: ReservoirTDS: 15 mg/LpH: 7

Wollongong, New South Wales, receives its drinking water from Sydney Water, a major provider for the Greater Sydney region and the Illawarra area. The supply originates from a network of reservoirs and catchments managed by Sydney Water, with water undergoing treatment at various facilities before reaching residents in the 2500 postcode. Sydney Water employs extensive treatment and monitoring systems to guarantee adherence to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

The Wollongong water originates in the Illawarra region's coastal catchments. These areas are geologically characterized by Permian sedimentary sequences and Quaternary alluvial deposits. The underlying bedrock, primarily composed of lower-grade metamorphic rocks and sedimentary formations, contributes to the supply's soft water nature. This geological makeup means very few calcium and magnesium minerals dissolve into the water, resulting in low total dissolved solids and a mild mineral profile.

Because the water is soft, you'll likely notice less limescale buildup on your faucets, appliances, and heating elements. Soft water also tends to be kinder to your skin and hair, and it helps reduce the formation of soap scum. While most households won't need a water softener, some individuals might prefer one for specific uses. Maintaining your plumbing and appliances becomes easier without significant mineral deposits. The water's pH is 7.8, and total dissolved solids are low at 72.3 mg/L, well within guidelines.

Geology & Source: Permian sedimentary rocks and Quaternary alluvial deposits; soft water due to minimal calcium and magnesium dissolution from metamorphic and granitic basement rocks

Other New South Wales Water Reports

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wollongong's water safe to drink?
Yes. Wollongong's water meets all federal safety standards. The hardness is ≈ 0–59 mg/L (Soft), which is safe to drink. High hardness affects appliances and taste, but poses no health risk.
Do I need a water softener in Wollongong?
Wollongong's water is soft at ≈ 0–59 mg/L. A water softener is generally not necessary, though a carbon filter can improve taste and remove any remaining chlorine.
How does Wollongong compare to the Australia average?
The Australia national average is 125 mg/L. Wollongong (≈ 0–59 mg/L) is 95 mg/L below the national average. The softest major city is Boronia at just 5 mg/L.