June 24, 2026
The Department of Primary Industries has promised to support growers through the transition caused by new restrictions on the usage of the herbicides paraquat and diquat.
Deputy Director-General Agriculture Peter Donaghy said the APVMA decision would have significant implications for Queensland growers, particularly in broadacre agriculture, but the government was committed to helping growers navigate this transition.
“More than 70 countries around the world have already banned paraquat, including the UK, Europe and China,” Mr Donaghy said.
“Paraquat and diquat play a critical role in the double-knock weed management strategy, which is essential for controlling herbicide-resistant weeds and is used by 63 per cent of grain farmers in Queensland’s northern grain-growing regions.
“We understand the serious challenges this will pose for Queensland growers and we are here to support them through this period of transition.”
The DPI plans to host a series of webinars with key stakeholders to help with management of issues going forward, as well as organise an industry roundtable and work with agrichemical companies on effective alternatives.
Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard said the transition period would be challenging.
“We welcome support from the Queensland Government and look forward to working with them to support our primary producers through this period of change,” she said.
- Related article: APVMA Slashes Paraquat Use
