What the Charles Sturt University Study Found

We know there’s a big gap in research about how students in regional Australia use water at school. What we do know is that most students and teachers say the school water fountains are hardly ever used. Instead, students end up buying bottled water from the canteen.  

To find out why, in 2018, researchers examined why students avoid using school water fountains. They used both interviews and surveys to get a clear picture. 

First, 13 high school students shared their thoughts and concerns about the water fountains at their school. 

Their feedback helped shape a survey, which was then completed by 475 students from two regional high schools.

Why School Fountains Get Skipped

Water was still the top drink at school, but 85% of students chose bottled water instead of using the fountains. Here’s why: 

• 30% never used the school fountains 

• 21% said the water temperature put them off 

• 18% said the fountain design was poor 

• 17% didn’t trust the water quality 

• 16% said the water tasted bad 

• 14% said poor maintenance was a problem 

• 14% were concerned about water being wasted

What Students Want in New Fountains

Students still picked water most often, but they wanted a better experience at the fountain. The research showed exactly what would help: better taste, odour, colour, and temperature. These upgrades would make fountains more trusted, practical, and appealing every day. 

Students said schools should upgrade fountains to improve water quality and usability, including better taste, odour, colour, and temperature. 

• 75% want clean, hygienic water that meets quality expectations 

• 70% want bottle filling that’s easier and faster 

• 64% want a tough design with minimal maintenance 

• 36% want better wastewater discharge and drainage

Why Hydration Matters: The Benefits of Drinking Water

When schools improve water quality, temperature, and access, more students choose the fountains over bottled water.

• Brain Fuel: Staying hydrated can support focus and thinking in the classroom. 

• Mood Boost: Drinking enough water can help support steadier mood states through the day. 

• Health Wins: Drinking enough water helps prevent headaches and supports your body to function properly. 

• Fresh and Chilled: Students are more likely to drink water when it’s fresh or chilled. Adding filtration can help if taste is an issue.

From Barriers to Easy Fixes: What Schools Can Do Next

The evidence is clear: when schools invest in quality water fountains, students drink more water and rely less on bottled options. If your school is ready to make hydration easier for students, we can help.

Ready to Upgrade Your School’s Water Fountains?

Book a free hydration review with our experts to create a solution that works for your school. We’ll assess your current setup, identify what’s holding students back, and recommend practical upgrades that make a real difference.