GPA WELCOMES VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT PHOSPHINE DELAY

Grain Producers Australia (GPA) welcomes the Victorian Government decision today proposing a significant delay in workplace changes to phosphine fumigant use. 

WorkSafe Victoria announced today a proposal to delay the commencement of new Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for 15 airborne contaminants, including phosphine, until 1 December 2029. 

It is hoped that this is the first sensible announcement of many from state regulators who will be charged with enforcing new standards that are supposed to come into effect on 1 December this year. 

The new exposure limits set by Safe Work Australia (SWA) amongst a 31-page list of contaminants would have seen grain growers virtually banned from using phosphine as a grain fumigant to protect against pests. 

Although the SWA mass review of contaminants has been underway for several years, the vast scope of it meant the huge detriment to the Australian grains sector has only recently been realised.

“GPA are deeply committed to safe workplace standards, but this new limit would have seen a real risk to Australia’s biosecurity and trade, with no demonstration it will improve worker safety,” stated GPA Chair, Matthew Madden. 

“The new standard would make Australia’s phosphine exposure standard out of step with the rest world, including the EU, UK, USA, Canada and Argentina. 

“There isn’t really a viable alternative for grain growers to fumigate stored grain against pests, and support our biosecurity and trade, so this looming change, with no workplace safety advantage has been deeply concerning.  

“The Australian grain sector has been facing monumental challenges recently, including fuel and fertiliser supply and prices challenges caused by the Iran war, we don’t need any further burdens for no gain. 

“GPA recognises the Victorian Government in taking a stand against this change, and we are hopeful that other state governments will follow suit soon” he added.

ENDS

Further information:

GPA Chair Matthew Madden: 0457 731 210

GPA Executive Officer Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193