GrainGrowers Welcomes APVMA Paraquat Decision

Grain industry group GrainGrowers has welcomed the APVMA’s recent decision to keep the herbicide paraquat available for use in Australia, although it says new restrictions will affect some key application rates.

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority last week confirmed paraquat would remain available under tighter controls following its latest regulatory review.

GrainGrowers Chair Rhys Turton says industry research and grower input played a key role in ensuring the final decision was based on scientific evidence.

He says paraquat remains an important tool in grain production systems, supporting practices that reduce soil erosion and fuel use.

Mr Turton has thanked growers who participated in surveys and on-farm trials during the review process.

GrainGrowers says the focus must now shift to developing alternative chemistry options and maintaining investment in research so growers retain access to effective weed control tools.