We run programs to keep residents healthy, covering seafood safety, drinking water, and mould.
We also enforce public health and environmental legislation.
In the community
To help improve the health and wellbeing of our residents, we have developed a Healthy Communities Plan (PDF).
The main priorities of the plan are to provide:
- a natural and built environment that encourages active lifestyles and healthy eating
- a cohesive and inclusive community with well-developed social and community networks and assets
- improved personal health knowledge, practices and lifestyles.
The Community Development Officer – Healthy Communities, oversees the implementation of the plan and can provide information on programs, resources and contacts for sport and recreation organisations.
Immunisation
Visit our immunisation clinic page for details.
Drinking Water
Water quality in Tasmania is governed by the Tasmanian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines. Who to contact depends on your water source:
| Source | What to do |
|---|---|
| Mains water | Contact TasWater on 13 69 92 |
| Rainwater tank, dam, or bore | You’re responsible — check rural water guidance |
| Private supplier | Contact your supplier (must be Council-registered) |
| Commercial water carrier | Contact us (carriers must be Council-registered) |
Want to become a water supplier? Complete an application form and pay the relevant fee:
Seafood Safety
Always check safety alerts before eating anything caught from the River Derwent.
- Shellfish: Public health alerts apply to wild shellfish across Tasmania. Note that cooking does not make unsafe shellfish safe. Check current alerts.
- Fish: Some fish from the River Derwent and Browns River contain high mercury levels. Check the Derwent Estuary Program guide for what’s safe to eat.
Mould
Mould spores can cause health issues, particularly for people with asthma. Check damp, dark areas if you can smell it.
Cleaning mould Wear gloves, goggles, and an N-95 mask. Use either:
- Vinegar solution — 80% vinegar, 20% water; leave for 20 minutes, then sponge with clean water
- Tea tree oil solution — 2 tsp tea tree oil in 2 cups of water (approx. 3%)
Don’t dry-brush (spreads spores) or use bleach. For valuable items, consider professional cleaning.
Preventing mould — control moisture by:
- Ventilating — open windows, use bathroom/exhaust fans, vent dryers outside
- Heating — use dry heat continuously at a low level; let in sunlight
- Maintaining your home — fix leaks, clear weep holes, check door/window seals, cut back overhanging trees, and ensure garden beds slope away from the house
Unsure what something on this page means? Check out Our Glossary.