Cane industry seeks paraquat lifeline

CANEGROWERS and Sugar Research Australia will seek a one-year emergency permit from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority allowing growers to purchase and use paraquat in sugarcane under the previous label conditions, subject to appropriate restrictions. 

The APVMA’s recent decision removes sugarcane from revised paraquat labels because the allowable rates are well below those required for effective use in cane. 

Products carrying labels approved before the decision can still be used until 22 June 2028, but growers will be limited to the finite supply of old-label stock already in circulation. 

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the permit would provide a practical bridge while alternative weed-control options were developed. 

“This is not about using up old drums already sitting in sheds,” Mr Galligan said. 

“We are seeking a one-year permit that would allow growers to buy new stock and use it under the previous conditions, with appropriate safeguards in place. 

“Paraquat is an important part of minimum-tillage farming because it controls weeds without repeatedly disturbing the soil. Right now, there is no replacement that works across every farming system. 

“Growers need more than an assurance that alternatives are coming. They need a workable option for the season ahead, and that is what this application is designed to provide.” 

SRA is working with chemical companies to develop alternative knockdown herbicide strategies for consideration to be registered by APVMA.

“We respect the APVMA’s role and understand the application will need to address its concerns,” Mr Galligan said. 

“But the practical reality is growers cannot switch overnight to alternatives that are not yet available. 

“A short-term permit would give the industry breathing room to make that transition properly.” 

Grower leaders will also raise the issue directly with APVMA officials when they address the CANEGROWERS Policy Council later this month. 

“That meeting will give APVMA officials the chance to hear directly from growers about how paraquat is used and what losing it would mean on farm,” Mr Galligan said. 

“We are looking for a sensible short-term solution that gives growers a workable option while the next generation of weed-control tools is brought forward.”