ZP50 PERMIT ADVANCING WITH INDUSTRY COLLABORATION

Grain Producers Australia (GPA) is continuing to work closely with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) as final assessment processes are underway for GPA’s emergency permit application for access to 50g/kg zinc phosphide (ZP50) mouse bait. 

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and CSIRO have also been involved throughout the process to support the assessment and consideration of the application. 

The application was submitted by GPA on 25 April 2026 in response to escalating mouse activity across parts of Western Australia and South Australia and growing concern from grain producers about impacts on crop establishment and early season losses. 

GPA Research Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann said ongoing engagement that has included the WA and SA governments, industry, researchers, manufacturers and the regulator had been important throughout the process. 

“We appreciate the way APVMA has engaged with GPA, GRDC and CSIRO throughout this process and the recognition of the seriousness of the mouse pressure being experienced in parts of Western Australia and South Australia,” Mr Weidemann said. 

“Growers are dealing with increasing mouse numbers during a critical stage for crop establishment, and ensuring regulators have access to practical on-ground information has been an important part of this work.” 

Mr Weidemann said GPA’s application reflected grower concerns around the effectiveness of currently available bait options under higher pressure plague conditions. 

“There are currently registered zinc phosphide bait products available to growers, however industry has been seeking consideration of additional control tools during these escalating conditions,” he said. 

“The process now underway is about making sure all necessary safety, environmental and trade assessments are properly worked through while also recognising the urgency growers are facing on the ground.” 

As part of a coordinated public update, APVMA provided the following statement: 

“APVMA is aware of the significant mouse activity being experienced in parts of Western Australia and South Australia, and we understand the serious impacts these plagues have on you, your family, your business, and your community. 

“While there are currently over 20 registered products containing 25 g/kg zinc phosphide (ZnP) available to control heavy mouse infestations in agricultural settings, we recognise that under plague conditions, access to additional control tools may be sought to reduce mouse populations. 

“On 25 April 2026, APVMA received an emergency use permit application from Grain Producers Australia (GPA).

Since then, we have been working closely with GPA, GRDC and CSIRO to fast-track consideration of a permit for a 50 g/kg ZnP mouse bait to support the management of these plague conditions. 

“Before a permit can be issued, APVMA must be satisfied that the proposed use is safe for people, the environment, and trade. These assessments are currently underway. 

“We anticipate a decision in the near term and will work with the applicant to communicate the outcome as soon as it is finalised.” 

Mr Weidemann said GPA would continue working collaboratively with APVMA and industry stakeholders as the assessment process progresses. 

“This has been a coordinated effort involving growers, researchers, GRDC, CSIRO and APVMA, and GPA appreciates the constructive engagement that has occurred to date,” he said. 

ENDS

Further Information: 

GPA Research, Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann: 0428 504 544 

GPA Executive Officer Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193