Fraser Coast lab gains national health accreditation
A major expansion of local water testing services will help protect vulnerable members of the community while supporting hospitals, aged care homes, councils and businesses across the Fraser Coast region and beyond.
Fraser Coast Regional Council’s WaterOne Laboratory has gained national accreditation to test for Legionella bacteria in water, becoming one of only a few labs in regional Queensland with this certification.
Water Services spokesperson Cr Zane O’Keefe said the new service was a vital step forward in supporting public health.
“Legionella testing is an important safeguard for community health, particularly for vulnerable people in aged care, hospitals, hospices and other high-risk environments,” Cr O’Keefe said.
“By gaining this accreditation, WaterOne can now provide a faster, more accessible option for Legionella testing in our region and beyond, helping facilities meet government requirements without relying on labs in Brisbane.
“It means testing can now be done locally, which helps ensure samples stay within required holding times, removes the need for expensive courier services, and speeds up turnaround times for results.”
The accreditation from the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) confirms WaterOne meets strict national standards for Legionella testing and reporting. It follows 12 months of detailed preparation and assessment by the local laboratory team.
Legionella is a bacteria that can grow in warm water systems such as hot water pipes, showers and cooling towers. If inhaled through fine water droplets, it can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious form of pneumonia.
The new service is designed to assist a range of clients, including aged care providers, hospitals, hospices, plumbing companies, councils, commercial businesses and resorts.
Cr O’Keefe said the WaterOne team already provides a broad range of accredited microbiological and chemical water testing.
“The WaterOne team test everything from drinking water and swimming pools to rainwater tanks, rivers, lakes, sewage treatment plants and package treatment systems,” he said.
“It’s all backed by expert local staff, fast turnaround times, and the quality assurance that comes with national accreditation.”
WaterOne is owned and operated by Fraser Coast Regional Council. To learn more or enquire about services, visit frasercoast.qld.gov.au/waterone