Previous test results have revealed elevated levels of dioxins in fish and crustaceans across Sydney Harbour, including Parramatta River and other connected tidal waterways. A ban was consequently placed on commercial fishing in 2006 as a precautionary measure.
NSW Food Authority provides an overview of information related to recreational fishers, particularly:
Per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals that have been widely used in a variety of substances since the 1950s. While many essential uses of PFAS are still permitted, there are efforts both nationally and internationally to restrict non-essential uses and reduce use of the most hazardous PFAS compounds as a precautionary measure.
As part of its response to PFAS contamination at various sites across the state, the NSW government has released precautionary dietary advice for regular consumers of fish from certain areas. Further information about PFAS and a list of the areas and the advice pertaining to each is available here.