The annual IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water competition is a fun and engaging way to celebrate the high quality of Australia’s drinking water while acknowledging the dedication of local water service providers in delivering this essential resource to their communities.

In its search for the best-tasting tap water in each state and nationally, the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) invites all water suppliers to participate in the competition. Water samples undergo a blind taste test and are evaluated using the Water Tasting Wheel, which highlights key attributes such as colour, clarity, odour, and taste – just like a wine tasting, but you can drink the samples, leaving our judges well hydrated.

“This competition highlights the dedication and commitment of the operations staff and their water companies that work tirelessly – often in challenging conditions – to provide their communities with safe, high-quality drinking water every day,” said Dean Barnett, Chief Executive Officer of the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA). “It also shines a spotlight on the vital behind-the-scenes work of this discreet industry, which supports communities every hour of every day.”  

Mr Barnett also acknowledged IXOM’s ongoing support of the Best Tasting Tap Water competition for 10 years now. “IXOM’s commitment to the industry enables us to continue running this competition over many years and celebrate the critical work of water service providers across the country,” he said.

“IXOM is proud to be the sponsor of the prestigious 2026 IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water competition,” said Bryce Wolfe, Chief Executive Officer of IXOM. “IXOM is a leading supplier of water treatment chemicals to the water sector. With over 100 years of expertise, IXOM locally manufactures and supplies chemicals to water treatment plants all over Australia. We strive to raise standards and innovate across the industry, and help to ensure everyone has access to safe, clean and great-tasting drinking water.”