The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has published its final decisions on the extensive chemical reviews of non-selective herbicides paraquat and diquat.
APVMA CEO Scott Hansen said the reviews applied contemporary risk management frameworks to rigorous scientific investigation of the impacts of paraquat and diquat on human health and the environment.
“Both chemicals remain available for use with significant new restrictions on application rates and permitted uses,” Mr Hansen said.
“To protect users from acute exposure, new restrictions will phase out backpack sprayers and require enclosed mixing and loading systems for all uses, and enhanced personal protection equipment.
“Overall, the maximum rate of application on paraquat and diquat will be 231 grams per hectare, when it was previously 1150 grams per hectare.”
A higher application rate applies to technology assisted spot spraying where application is capped at 30 per cent of total area.
Detailed information on new registration conditions for paraquat and diquat are available in the
https://www.apvma.gov.au/news-and-publications/publications/gazette/special-gazette-23-jun-26
