Regulatory support and response co-ordination

Due to the complexity of domestic and international pesticide regulation Australian horticultural industries need to be kept aware of any developments in regulatory oversight and provided with an opportunity to consider and develop responses to issues arising from actions proposed that impact on grower ability to access and use needed pesticides.

The objectives of the services are to help Hort Innovation to cover four main areas relating to pesticides, their use and regulation.

1. Plant Protection product access:
   1. Pesticide reconsideration: engage with regulators and provide industries advice on potential actions and the possibility of maintaining access to chemicals undergoing reconsideration and, where necessary, develop responses to chemical reviews (domestic and international) on behalf of Hort Innovation.
   2. Maintain regulatory risk assessments for the Hort Innovation member and have input into industry Strategic Agrichemical Review Processes (SARP) regarding regulatory threats that have the potential to adversely impact access.
   3. Provide input and technical support into the development of alternative technologies such as new pesticides, gene manipulation or biocides.
2. Through this project the service provider would seek to ensure through their involvement with aspects relating to the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues, i.e., that developments in international standards relevant to Australian horticulture are captured and where needed responses provided.
3. Regulatory engagement: Act as a resource for horticulture industries regarding pesticide regulation, technical input at a federal and state level in regard to decision making and policy development regarding minor use.
4. Communication: Keep Hort Innovation and their horticulture industries informed of any pesticide related developments and provide appropriate responses to any issues that may arise.