Biotech Updates

Australian OGTR Receives Application for Limited and Controlled Release of GM Buffalo Grass

November 15, 2017

Under the Gene Technology Act 2000, the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has received a license application (DIR 156) from RMIT University for the limited and controlled release of genetically modified (GM) buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum).

DIR 156 is for the limited and controlled release of buffalo grass genetically modified for herbicide resistance and dwarf phenotype. RMIT University proposes to conduct the field trial between April 2018 and April 2019. One site of up to 200 square meters will be planted with one plant per square meter. The trial site would be located at RMIT Bundoora East campus in Whittlesea, Victoria.

The Gene Regulator will consult at a later date on the risk assessment and risk management plan (RARMP) that will be prepared according to the Act. The RARMP is expected to be released for comment in January 2018.

For more information, including the notification of application and summary of the license application, visit the DIR 156 page on the OGTR website.