The information contained in this set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) are in response to questions from industry and retailers.
Other questions and answers will be published or updated on this page as required.
When/how will SGAR labels be updated?
Labels can be updated by the APVMA through the voluntary s29A variation process - contact chemicalreview@apvma.gov.au for details.
How will labels that were issued separate label numbers under Item 10A applications be treated?
These can be considered on a case-by-case basis – contact chemicalreview@apvma.gov.au for details.
When does the Restricted Chemical Product (RCP) status come into effect?
The APVMA's certification that it is in the public interest for second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARS) to be declared RCPs is the first step in a process that involved cooperation between the states and territories and Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to determine the qualifications and licencing frameworks that will apply in each jurisdiction. A firm timeline for this process is not yet available.
Do my workers need additional qualifications to use SGARs after 24 March 2026?
There are no changes to the training required to use these products at this time.
The APVMA published the decision to suspend all SGAR products from 24 March 2026. The notice includes additional instructions that users are required to follow. You can find the notice in the APVMA Gazette No 5, Tuesday 10 March 2026.
How do we supply products with the instructions to comply with the deemed permit?
The instructions need to be physically supplied to the purchaser the time of purchase. The simplest option is to print the pages from the APVMA Gazette No 5, Tuesday 10 March 2026. If appropriate, the information could be limited to either Table 1 or Table 2 for specific product classes.
Can we add a sticker/leaflet to package to include the instructions?
Yes but only if this does not obscure other instructions on the package.
Can we repackage products into smaller packages with the old label, to supply these during the suspension?
Repackaging/relabelling is a step of manufacture and should be done using a new label – this is not acceptable during suspension.
How do I get consent to import a suspended product?
Use the form on the APVMA website - products in supply chain are eligible for import consent. New manufactured products will not be approved.
Can we get consent to manufacture new products with the old label?
No this is not acceptable during suspension.
Can throw packs be supplied under a deemed permit?
Yes, provided that the user follows the instructions provided in the deemed permit – i.e. use in tamper resistant bait stations.
Are specific licences needed to supply RCPs?
This is specific to states and territories and will be considered by those authorities during preparation for a declaration of products as RCPs.
If we apply to have our labels varied so we can successfully import the goods with new labels, would we then be required to re-label all existing on-shore stock? Or can we continue to sell that stock under the Deemed Permit?
Existing on-shore stock will be able to be sold with the current label under the deemed permit. Newly manufactured or imported product would need to be sold with the new label, but that won’t require relabelling of the old stock.
For product that is already on shelf, is it acceptable for the retailer to print the instructions for use in store?
Yes and those instructions must then be physically provided to the purchaser at point of sale.
For products that are proposed to be cancelled due to lack of bittering agent – During the suspension period, are we permitted to continue supplying existing stock of the affected products provided the supply occurs in accordance with the deemed permit conditions (including provision of the physical permit with each product)?
Yes, the suspension is an interim risk mitigation measure that is intended to manage risks while the ongoing reconsideration is completed. Supply of the existing stock with the deemed permit is acceptable.
During the suspension period, would it be acceptable for us (holders of products proposed to be cancelled due to lack of bittering agent) to amend the approved label so that new product can be manufactured and supplied in accordance with the directions for use specified in the deemed permit?
This would be challenging, as the delegate is required to be satisfied that the product and label would meet the statutory criteria after making the variations and we have stated that we are not satisfied because of the lack of bittering agent.
Since formulation is required to include a bittering agent, can we apply for a variation to the product formulation during the suspension period in order to bring the product into compliance and thereafter manufacture and supply the new formulation including the bittering agent?
Yes, this would remove the concerns related to the lack of bittering agent. Other variations to the label to align with the instructions in the deemed permit could be completed at the same time. This would likely be an Item 12 application.
Disposal of unused products
How should we dispose of products that can't be sold?
Your local council waste transfer station or state or territory environment authority can advise on correct disposal requirements in your area.