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OGTR Newsletter Issue 6
This issue provides an update on the OGTR office.
Don't import glowing fish unless you have authorisation
Glowing or fluorescent fish such as GloFish® are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and it is illegal to import them into Australia for personal or commercial use without an authorisation from the Regulator.
Genetically modified (GM) crops in Australia
Three genetically modified (GM) crops are grown in Australia: cotton, canola and safflower. GM carnations have also been approved for growing or importing into Australia. Other crops are undergoing field trials.
Controlling genetically modified (GM) canola on roadsides
This fact sheet provides information for the control of unwanted herbicidetolerant GM canola for example along roadsides.
How we regulate the intentional releases of GM crops and other GMOs into the environment
When gene technology is used to create a genetically modified (GM) plant, animal or other living thing (organism), the genetically modified organism (GMO), for example GM canola, is regulated by the Gene Technology Regulator to protect people and the environment.
Handling an unintentional presence of genetically modified (GM) crops
The probability of unapproved genetically modified organisms gaining entry to Australia is low. But it is possible that unapproved GM crops could be present as trace amounts in conventional imports, leading to the unintended presence of unapproved GMOs in Australia.
How are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) regulated in Australia
The import and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Australia is regulated through a nationally consistent legal scheme, including the Gene Technology Act 2000 (the Act), the Gene Technology Regulations 2001 and corresponding state laws.
Genetically modified (GM) Petunias in Australia
The Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator) has become aware that unauthorised genetically modified (GM) petunias have entered the Australian and international markets.
Genetically modified (GM) Petunia disposal methods
The Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator) has become aware that unauthorised genetically modified (GM) petunias have entered the Australian and international markets.
Genetically Modified (GM) Carnations in Australia
GM carnations were the first GM flowers in the world to be commercialised. They have been on the market since the mid-90s.
Ongoing monitoring of the safety of GM crops in Australia
In Australia, farmers can only grow a genetically modified (GM) crop if the crop has been approved by the Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator). You can read about all commercial GM crops that are authorised in Australia in the GMO Record.
Genetically modified organisms in Australia
Gene technology is widely used in Australia: in agriculture, in research, in health and medicine, in education, and in industry.
Who needs to apply to import or use (deal with) a GMO?
Anyone who wants to import or use a genetically modified organism (GMO)needs permission. That includes farmers, importers, schools, researchers, and members of the public.
Information for importers of grain and laboratory research supplies
If you are importing genetically modified grain or you are importing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on behalf of researchers, then you have specific obligations under the Gene Technology Act 2000.
GMOs in Schools
Commercially available kits are used in Australian schools to help science students learn about genetics.
Biohacking and community science
There is a growing community of individuals in Australia who are conducting do-it-yourself biology which is also sometimes known as biohacking or community science.
Public participation in assessing gene technology
Whether you are a member of the public or a community organisation, the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (the OGTR) invites your involvement.
Reporting misuse of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
If you have concerns that someone is using GMOs without authorisation, or misusing GMOs of any kind, please contact us. Whether it’s fish, crops, plants, bacteria etc we want to know.
Genetically modified (GM) canola in Australia
GM canola can only be grown with the approval of the Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator), who carries out a science-based risk assessment before the crop is approved for release.
Current GM plants authorised for release into the environment (GMO Register and licences for commercial releases)
Tables of all current commercially released GM plants in Australia and their OECD unique identifiers.
Twenty years of the OGTR - timeline
A list of significant events in the OGTR's 20-year history.
Genetically modified (GM) safflower in Australia
Safflower has been commercially cultivated as a minor crop in Australia since the 1950s.
Genetically modified (GM) wheat trials
GM wheat can only be grown with the approval of the Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator), who carries out a science-based risk assessment before the crop is approved for release.
Genetically modified (GM) cotton in Australia
The Regulator maintains oversight of commercially grown GM cotton, to ensure it remains safe.
OGTR Newsletter Issue 5
This is the second issue focussed on Confidential Commercial Information (CCI), providing more details about applying for information to be declared as CCI.