AUSVEG is disappointed at recent ABC media reports that undermined faith in the independence and expertise of Australia’s agricultural chemical regulator, and disregarded accepted scientific evidence about an important crop protection product – sharing the concerns of CropLife Australia, the national peak industry organisation for Australia’s plant science sector.

AUSVEG strongly advocates that the safety of all farmers must be a top priority. When it comes to the use of crop protection products, Australia’s respected independent regulator, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), is entrusted with that crucial role.

This protection occurs through the APVMA’s oversight of an independent, robust and rigorous, science and evidence-based regulatory system and framework to determine approvals and requirements for the safe use of agricultural chemicals.

The APVMA, along other renowned and respected international regulators have agreed the scientific evidence does not support a link between paraquat use and Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease is a terrible condition and AUSVEG deeply sympathises with all whose stories of affliction featured in this weekend’s ABC reports.

It is disappointing and alarming that those same reports elected to sow fear and doubt that is counter to the determinations of respected scientific regulators in Australia and internationally.

Reports like these that undermine faith in the integrity of Australia’s agricultural chemical regulation system are further examples of chronic misunderstanding of the operations and requirements of sophisticated modern farming systems that many take for granted.

In order to continue producing food and fibre for Australians, farmers need access to reliable and effective tools, including crop protection products that our regulator has deemed safe for use as directed on the label.