APVMA EXTENSION REFLECTS PARAQUAT REVIEW COMPLEXITY

By GPA Research Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann.

Grain Producers Australia (GPA) understands the need to extend the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) review of paraquat and diquat.

This extra time gives the regulator the space it needs to consider the full evidence base and make a decision that reflects both the science and the practical needs of Australian grain producers. 

The extension follows considerable feedback received during the 2024 consultation period.

GPA provided new Australian focused research with support from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and worked closely with its State Farming Organisation members to ensure growers’ experience and production needs were clearly understood.

This process highlighted the importance of having accurate,

Australian specific information available to the regulator when assessing herbicides that remain central to modern grain production systems. 

While the APVMA review is out of the control of growers, there are still many things within our control.

There is real value in growers focusing on the actions they can control day to day.

Paraquat and diquat, used alongside glyphosate, form an essential part of weed control in minimum-till systems.

These systems support soil health, help retain moisture, and play an important role in sustainable, profitable production. Because these herbicides are so important, good stewardship remains a shared responsibility. 

Growers already demonstrate strong stewardship across the country, and this is the time to continue reinforcing those practices.

That includes reading and following product labels, using quality spray application methods, adjusting to changing weather conditions and focusing on safety for people, crops and the environment.

These practical steps help maintain confidence in how these products are managed on farm and support long-term access for the industry. 

Beyond this, GPA will continue advocating for a regulatory system that is well resourced, independent and guided by evidence.

A science-based approach ensures decisions are credible and transparent and gives growers certainty about the tools available to support sustainable production.

The decision to extend the review is consistent with that approach and provides an opportunity for the APVMA to consider the information available in full. 

Backing growers is central to GPA’s work. Responsible herbicide use contributes to the broader benefits delivered by Australian grain producers for the economy, the environment and rural communities.

Strong stewardship strengthens the case for continued access to the chemistry that supports efficient and sustainable farming systems. 

While the final decision is still to come, growers can continue to play an active role by maintaining good practice on farm.

This is one of the clearest ways to demonstrate that these products are being used safely and appropriately. It also shows the regulator and the community that growers take their responsibilities seriously. 

GPA will keep working with GRDC, State Farming Organisations and government partners to provide growers with information, research insights and industry-led stewardship initiatives.

Ensuring access to effective weed control options is a shared effort, and GPA remains committed to supporting growers throughout the review process and beyond. 

This article was first published by Farm Weekly on December 4, 2025 HERE