Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals that resist heat, oil, stains and water. They have been used in many household products in Australia and around the world. Before being phased out in 2004, PFAS was used in firefighting foams at Defence Bases including RAAF Pearce. This has led to the contamination of soil and water around the Base. Residents have been cautioned against using PFAS contaminated soil and water for household and farming purposes.
The Federal Department of Defence is responsible for managing this issue in Bullsbrook. To date, the Department has provided packaged drinking water to affected properties while longer term solutions are investigated. The City of Swan supports the installation of scheme water to all properties in West Bullsbrook at no expense to the landowner, and is lobbying State and Federal stakeholders to prioritise the scheme water connection.
Property valuation
Landgate determines unimproved land values for rating and taxation purposes for properties in Western Australia. Unimproved Values (UV) are revalued annually and Gross Rental Values (GRV) are revalued every three years. A recent Landgate review of the Bullsbrook area was initiated by ratepayers affected by water contamination, and has resulted in a reduction in UV and GRV. The reduced valuations have been forwarded to the City and will result in lower rates charges for relevant properties in 2019/20.
More information
To seek a revaluation or object to the current valuation, affected ratepayers should contact the Valuer General's Office on (08) 9273 7373 or visit Landgate's website.
The Department of Defence is hosting community information sessions about the contamination issue. Please refer below for details:
Location: Ethel Warren Bullsbrook Community Centre
Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Time: Doors for the first session open at 2pm, the presentation will commence at 2.15pm. Doors for the second session open at 6pm, the presentation will commence at 6.15pm
