New Provisions on the use of Paraquet Released

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has completed its review of paraquat, one of Australia's most widely used agricultural herbicides. The review examined extensive scientific evidence relating to human health, occupational exposure and environmental impacts. Following its assessment, the APVMA determined that paraquat should remain available for use in Australia, but only under stricter conditions designed to improve safety.

The authority concluded that the available evidence did not establish a causal link between approved paraquat use and Parkinson's disease. However, it identified opportunities to further reduce risks to operators and the environment. New requirements include lower application rates, stronger personal protective equipment standards, enclosed mixing and loading systems, and the phase-out of certain application methods such as backpack spraying.

The ruling aims to balance the needs of Australian agriculture with community expectations for safe chemical use, ensuring farmers retain an important weed-control tool while enhancing protections for workers and the environment.