New research from the University of Melbourne reveals a shocking reality. Common ringtail and brushtail possums in Australia have some of the highest concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) ever recorded in small mammals globally. A team under the direction of Associate Professor Brad Clarke just completed a very innovative study. It exposes the truly shocking extent of toxic, synthetic “forever chemicals” across Australian fauna.
PFAS have infiltrated nearly every aspect of our everyday lives. They are frequently found in fire-fighting foams, non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and personal care products. They are well-known for their lasting presence in the environment, with the ability to be detected decades later. Over the last few decades, there’s been an overwhelming amount of studies that PFAS are harmful, especially certain compounds. These risks are cancer, developmental damage, and immune system interference.
Our understanding of PFAS’ impacts was primarily based on experimental studies. These possums were either euthanized before the end of the study for welfare reasons or died from causes unrelated to the study during the study. Lead researcher Ellis Mackay and her team found something shocking. What they discovered shocked them – these marsupials were found to have truly dangerous concentrations of PFAS, wreaking havoc with their health while raising threats to the entire ecosystem.
The results highlight a concerning contamination issue for Australian marsupials. This study is the first to record PFAS for these species. It does create a strong precedent for future research on the environmental impact of these chemicals on wildlife.
Associate Professor Clarke, who is a co-author of the study’s published paper, emphasized that understanding PFAS is critically important. These chemicals destroy the habitat and have significant effects on wildlife. They enter the food chain bringing potential dangers to human health. The researchers reported their results in the journal Environmental Pollution. Article DOI 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.180727 Retrieved 1 November 2025.