APVMA final decision on Paraquat-action required by AgVet retailers
To mitigate acute environmental and handler risks, the APVMA has introduced an immediate manufacturing transition, a permanent ban on backpack sprayers, an 80% slash to broadacre application rates, and mandatory closed-loop engineering controls.
What has changed?
New manufacture/packaging rule: Paraquat products made on or after 23 June 2026 must carry the new labels and be supplied in closed-loop compatible containers.
Two years phase-out period: Products manufactured before 23 June 2026 may be sold and used until 22 June 2028. After that date old stock must not be possessed, sold or used.
Approved Suppliers Quality Assurance: Our supplier/manufacturer must provide the batch number for each product.
Use controls: The new labels require closed-mixing/loading systems, reduced application rates, use is completely prohibited on certain crops (e.g., sugarcane) and tighter PPE and engineering controls.
Immediate actions
Training: Train all staff about this requirement and keep records of training conducted.
Storage and Logistics: Clearly separate products with OLD LABELS (manufactured before 23.06.26) and NEW LABELS (manufactured on or after 23.06.26) stock and sell old stock first using FIFO principles.
Stock count for old labels: Record SKU, units, batch number, manufacture date and expiry date for every paraquat product.
Customer education: Reassure customers that there is a two-year sell-through, so they do not need to panic.
Clarifications we are seeking
We recognise that these sudden changes present massive practical hurdles for retailers. We are actively seeking urgent clarification from APVMA on pack-size exemptions, state rules on transport/manifests/ disposal after 22 June 2028, APVMA enforcement expectations, confirmation of the final sell-through end date, and whether APVMA will publish a draft label template.
Please take immediate action to prevent non-compliance, ensure efficient stock management and avoid waste. Please contact Agsafe for any further clarification at memberservices@agsafe.org.au.