Comments attributable to NFF President Hamish McIntyre:
Farmers take their responsibility to protect people and the environment seriously. This is not just a principle, it’s fundamental to running a viable farm business. Without healthy people and a healthy environment, there is no food and fibre production.
We acknowledge the recent reports in the media about paraquat. It is absolutely critical the products farmers use are safe for both people and the environment.
It’s important to recognise how much has changed over time. Modern agriculture operates under stringent regulations, including strict restrictions on chemical application systems, mandatory PPE, and certification or training requirements to use chemicals like paraquat. These science-based safety regulations protect farmers, others, and the environment.
In Australia, decisions about agricultural chemicals are made by the independent, science-based regulator, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).
The APVMA continuously reviews the latest scientific evidence from Australia and around the world against our unique Australian conditions. This determines what products can be used and under what conditions.
The NFF unequivocally supports the role of the APVMA as Australia’s independent regulator. Farmers rely on that independent process, just like pet owners rely on the APVMA to decide which medicines are safe for their animals. We are not scientists, but we have a responsibility to follow the rules, use products correctly, and continually improve practices as new information becomes available.
Products like paraquat are an important tool for managing weeds, supporting efficient food and fibre production, and enabling environmentally friendly practices like no-till farming that protect soil health, reduce erosion and retain moisture.
This is particularly important in allowing farmers to sustainably grow the food we need in the face of increasingly variable seasons.
We don’t want to see farmers put at risk, so it is critical that regulatory decisions continue to be guided by robust scientific evidence, and that safety requirements are clear, practical and enforced.
The NFF will continue to support our members and the broader industry with clear, evidence-based information on what is a complex and sensitive issue, and reinforce the importance of trust in our independent regulatory system.
The APVMA’s decision following its review of paraquat will be handed down mid-year. Its most recent statement on paraquat is available here. The NFF’s submission to the review is available here.
