The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has published its final decisions on herbicides paraquat and diquat, including restrictions and registration requirements.

After a chemical review, the APVMA found that "the weight of evidence does not show that paraquat exposure through approved uses increases the risk of developing Parkinson's disease".

APVMA chief executive Scott Hansen said paraquat and diquat would remain for use with "significant new restrictions" on application rates and permitted uses.

The Agricultural Community Reacts

The decision has been acknowledged by the National Farmers Federation (NFF), which will now consider the details and the implications for farmers. The decision was praised by Grain Producers Australia (GPA), which labelled the decision a "victory for science-based regulation".

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said products like paraquat have played an important role in modern farming systems.

“Paraquat helps support effective weed management and enable practices like no-till farming, which protects soil health, reduces erosion and helps retain moisture.

“These practices are critical as farmers respond to increasingly variable seasons and growing demand for food and fibre.”

Noting as well that farmers take their responsibility to protect people and the environment seriously.

“Without healthy people and a healthy environment, there is no food and fibre production. That’s a fundamental reality for every farm business,” he said.

GPA spokesperson Andrew Weidemann praised the chemical regulator, saying the decision was a positive outcome for grain producers. 

Australia's main manufacturer of paraquat, Syngenta, said it was assessing the impact of the decision on its "product portfolio".

"Syngenta is committed to working with growers, distributors and industry bodies to ensure the changes to label instructions are clearly understood and that any transition is managed responsibly," a company spokesperson said.

What Happens Now

From 23 June, 2026, new registration conditions will apply to the labels of all paraquat and diquat products. Existing stock will be phased out over a two-year period, allowing the industry to identify and adopt alternative weed management strategies, and prepare for the implementation of new occupational health and safety measures. 

From 23 June, 2026, new registration conditions will apply to the labels of all paraquat and diquat products. Existing stock will be phased out over a two-year period, allowing the industry to identify and adopt alternative weed management strategies, and prepare for the implementation of new occupational health and safety measures.