Australian OGTR Invites Comments on GM Canola Field Trials

Australia's Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is currently assessing license application DIR 163 from Nuseed Pty. Ltd., for a field trial (limited and controlled release) of canola genetically modified (GM) for altered oil content and herbicide tolerance.

The trial sites are proposed to be selected in 95 possible local government areas in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. The field trial may occur over five growing seasons between November 2018 and December 2023. The proposal is to plant a total maximum of 150 ha per year on up to 20 sites. The GM canola grown in this field trial would not be used for commercial human food or animal feed.

The Gene Regulator has prepared the Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) for the application which concludes that the proposed release would pose negligible risk to human health and safety or to the environment. The Regulator welcomes written submissions to finalize the RARMP, which will then inform the decision on whether or not to issue the license. Submissions should be received by close of business on July 26, 2018.

For more details, read the DIR 163 documents available at the OGTR website.