June 23, 2026
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has published significant new restrictions on the use of the herbicides paraquat and diquat.
APVMA CEO Scott Hansen said both chemicals would remain available for use but there would be new restrictions on application rates and permitted uses.
“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,” Mr Hansen said.
“Overall, the maximum rate of application on paraquat and diquat will be 231g per hectare, when it was previously 1150g per hectare.”
A higher application rate applies to technology-assisted spot spraying where application is capped at 30 per cent of the total area.
The APVMA said the restrictions followed a review of toxicity risks for people and a detailed assessment of data showing acute and chronic exposure risks to birds and mammals foraging in treated areas.
APVMA received 171 submissions from scientists, doctors, the agricultural industry and other interested parties during the review.
In making its decision, the APVMA found the weight of evidence does not show that paraquat exposure through approved uses increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
New registration conditions will apply to the labels of all paraquat and diquat products manufactured from June 23, 2026.
Existing stock will be phased out over a two-year period, allowing the industry to identify and adopt alternative weed management strategies, and prepare for the implementation of new occupational health and safety measures.
The National Farmers’ Federation president Hamish McIntyre said farmers took their responsibility to protect people and the environment seriously.
“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
“Today, agriculture operates under stringent regulations, including strict restrictions on application systems, mandatory personal protective equipment, and training or certification requirements for chemical use.
“These are science-based safeguards designed to protect farmers, their workers and the environment.”
He said products such as 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.
“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,” he said.
- More information is available on the APVMA website
