Biotech Updates

Decision to License Commercial Release of GM canola in Australia

December 9, 2011

The Australian Office of Gene Technology Regulator decided to issue a license authorizing Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd to commercially release generically modified herbicide tolerant canola and a hybrid breeding system (InVigor® x Roundup Ready® canola) throughout Australia. The license covers "the GM canola and products derived from the GM canola that would enter general commerce, including use in human food and animal feed."

The decision to issue the license was based on the extensive consultation on the Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) with the public, State and Territory governments, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee, and local councils, as required by the Gene Technology Act 2000 and corresponding State and Territory laws.

Details of this news can be viewed at http://www.ogtr.gov.au