Dozens of NSW public schools are relying on deliveries of bottled water. 

During a recent budget estimates hearing, the NSW Department of Education provided a list of 46 schools that do not have safe drinking water. The list was later updated to include a 47th school. 

Opposition Education spokeswoman Prue Car says it is a “concerning” situation.

“We've got more than 40 schools across the state that are relying on bottled water because they don't have permanent access to safe drinking water,” she said.

“While we accept there are water access challenges, particularly across regional NSW, we are worried this could have impacts on children.”

Many of the affected schools are in the New England, Central West, Riverina, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle regions.

Federation of Parents and Citizens Associations of NSW Riverina representative Saba Nabi said it is a surprise. 

“In this day and age, I feel that all schools in NSW should have access to potable water irrespective of their location,” she said.

“I mean, this is a basic amenity and I understand and I feel for the schools and the kids.

“I really wish that the department [would come] up with a very permanent solution to something very alarming.”

A NSW Department of Education spokesperson said having potable water in all schools is “not possible”.

“In these instances the department supplies them with access to safe drinking water,” they said.

“The department currently supplies 47 NSW public schools with bottled water.

“Bottled water may be supplied at schools based on individual circumstances.

“In some instances the provision of bottled water is temporary.”