The Department of Defence is investigating potential per-and-poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination stemming from the historical use of fire-fighting foams at the Holsworthy Barracks and Liverpool Fire Station.
Investigations have found PFAS both on and offsite. The detection of PFAS is not unexpected given the past use of PFAS-containing fire-fighting foams at the site. PFAS has also been used in many domestic and industrial products and background levels may be present from these other sources.
The Department of Defence is conducting further testing to determine whether there are any potential impacts for the local community.
Although the NSW Government does not regulate Department of Defence sites, they have agreed to conduct investigations in a manner consistent with the EPA’s requirements.
For more information see
- NSW EPA factsheet: Holsworthy Barracks (PDF 222KB)
- NSW EPA media release: New PFAS sampling results released for Commonwealth sites in NSW
- Department of Defence PFAS investigation and management website