Farmers are paying the price for “inefficiencies” at the nation’s ag-vet chemical regulator and the “politicising” of the body was risking safe and sustainable food and fibre production.
Grain Producers Australia RD&E spokesman Andrew Weidemann made the comments after a damning independent review found the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority had been “too close” to the pesticides industry and failed to fulfil regulatory responsibilities.
The review by law firm Clayton UTZ also found the APVMA had eight out of 10 chemical reviews in progress for more than 15 years, and seven ongoing for almost two decades.
Mr Weidemann welcomed the Albanese government’s promise to cleanup the ag-vet chemicals regulation system, but said “ultimately farmers and consumers will pay the price” if it continues to be used as a political football.