The NSW Health PFAS Advice includes quite some statements:

• “The health effects of PFAS appear to be small.”
• “… there was definite evidence of increased psychological distress in … exposed communities, evidence for other adverse health outcomes from this study was limited.”
• “Interventions that reduce blood PFAS are of uncertain benefit and may cause harm.”

These comments seem at odds with much of the mainstream media's presentation around PFAS. Or even the recently drastically reduced drinking dater guidelines or Version 3 of the National Environmental Management Plan (NEMP) for PFAS. On top of that, the statements are unusually direct for a government public health communication, which made us curious to understand how NSW Health had arrived at these conclusions.

To find out, Gunnar and James reached out to NSW Health. Their media team was quick to respond and connected them with two members of the expert advisory panel:

• Dr Claire Hooker – Associate Professor, Health Humanities and Arts and Health, Sydney Health Ethics
• Prof Martyn Kirk – National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University

Speaking with these distinguished researchers was a privilege. Despite being a little star-struck, Gunnar and James kept their cool and recorded one of their most insightful conversations to date.

This episode was recorded on 30 September 2025 and it is dense with evidence, reasoning, and nuance - it’s well worth your full attention.

Southern Cross University Acid Sulfate Soil Course

Listen to Below the Surface and collect CPD points. We have confirmation that you can claim 0.5 points for every hour you spend with us under the Self Education Category

Contact: [email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/company/below-the-surface-podcast

The necessary disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this Podcast are the speakers’ own. They do not necessarily represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of 4Pillars Environmental Consulting Pty Ltd or any Client, Supplier or other party related to 4Pillars or the speakers.
(c) Gunnar Haid and James Hammond