FLUORIDE will begin to be added to Queensland drinking supplies this year after the passing of new laws by state parliament.

Health Minister Stephen Robertson today thanked MPs for their overwhelming support in passing the legislation last night.

He said the response to the $35 million statewide rollout was overwhelmingly positive.

“It is encouraging to work with local councils who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get down to business on this long-overdue public health initiative.”

Mr Robertson said 80 per cent of Queenslanders would have access to fluoridated water within two years, with 95 per cent drinking it by 2012.

“Given the significant health benefits of water fluoridation, the savings on our investment of $35 million will be recouped many times over,” he said.

“For every dollar invested in fluoridation the estimated saving per person is between $12 and $80 in dental treatment costs.”

The laws will bring Queensland into line with all other states and territories, some of which introduced fluoride to their water supplies 40 years ago.

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