Easier access to free drinking water now available outside RDHM

Those accessing services in and around the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne now have greater access to free drinking water with the installation of a new public drinking fountain.

Dental Health Services CEO, Dr Deborah Cole, said the VicHealth initiative, which has a tap for refilling reusable water bottles, would make it easier for people to make a healthy choice.

“At Dental Health Services Victoria, our programs focus on the 3 key messages of Drink well, Eat well and Clean well. This water fountain initiative supports the Drink well message,” said Dr Cole.

“The initiative is perfectly aligned with what we believe in and stand for as a public health service. Tap water is free, tastes great, is environmentally friendly and in many cases fluoridated.”

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said having free, accessible water available was an important part of enabling Victorians to drink more water, less sugary drinks and reap the health rewards.

“This is one of 69 VicHealth fountains installed across the city and each fountain has a refill tap to allow people to refill their own drink bottle,” said Ms Rechter.

“Given the link between drinking water and good dental health, the location of this water fountain is important and hopefully will encourage more people to make healthy choices.”

For more information please contact Suzana Talevski, DHSV Media and Community Relations Manager on 0407 961 413 or

Cimara Doutré, Senior Media Advisor, VicHealth on 0435 761 732