Statement on paraquat decision

The National Farmers' Federation acknowledges the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority's (APVMA) final decision following its review of paraquat and diquat.

The decision will mean products remain approved for use, but with lower application rates and more controls.

The NFF will now take the time to carefully consider the detail of the decision and its implications for farmers and Australia's food and fibre production.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said farmers take their responsibility to protect people and the environment seriously.

"Without healthy people and a healthy environment, there is no food and fibre production. That's a fundamental reality for every farm business," Mr McIntyre said.

"We acknowledge the community concern around paraquat, and it is absolutely critical that the products farmers use are safe for both people and the environment."

Mr McIntyre said modern agricultural chemical use operates under strict controls.

"Today, agriculture operates under stringent regulations, including strict restrictions on application systems, mandatory personal protective equipment, and training or certification requirements for chemical use," he said.

"These are science-based safeguards designed to protect farmers, their workers, and the environment."

Mr McIntyre reinforced the importance of Australia's independent regulatory system.

"Decisions about agricultural chemicals are made by the APVMA, an independent, science-based regulator that assesses the latest evidence from Australia and around the world against our unique conditions.

"Farmers rely on that independent process. 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."

Mr McIntyre said products like paraquat have played an important role in modern farming systems.

"Paraquat helps support effective weed management and enable practices like no-till farming, which protects soil health, reduces erosion and helps retain moisture.

"These practices are critical as farmers respond to increasingly variable seasons and growing demand for food and fibre."

Mr McIntyre said the NFF would work closely with industry following the decision.

"No one wants to see farmers put at risk, and decisions must continue to be guided by robust scientific evidence, with clear, practical and enforceable safety requirements.

"The NFF will continue to support our members with clear, evidence-based information and ensure farmers' interests are represented as the implications of this decision are worked through."

The NFF's submission to the review is available here.