EMERGENCY MOUSE BAIT PERMIT WELCOMED BY GRAIN INDUSTRY

Grain producers across Australia have welcomed the approval of an emergency permit allowing access to stronger zinc phosphide mouse bait as mouse pressure intensifies across key cropping regions.

After weeks of assessment, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority has approved Grain Producers Australia’s application for use of the stronger ZP50 bait, following sustained reports of rising mouse activity and crop impact.

Industry groups say the lower-strength bait has struggled to control populations, with growers reporting damage to emerging crops, stored grain and farm infrastructure.

Grain Producers Australia spokesperson Andrew Weidemann says the approval provides a timely option for growers needing to respond quickly to escalating mouse numbers, helping reduce the risk of further crop losses this season.

In South Australia, Grain Producers SA says nearly half of surveyed growers are already seeing mouse activity, particularly across the Yorke Peninsula, Mid North and Adelaide Plains.

Growers using the stronger bait will need to complete an online training course and comply with reporting requirements under the permit conditions.

For more information about the approval, visit: https://www.apvma.gov.au/news-and-publications/statements/emergency-mouse-bait-permit-zinc-phosphide-50g-kg-and-fact-sheet