The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has published its final decisions on the extensive chemical reviews (the reviews) of non-selective herbicides paraquat and diquat.
APVMA CEO Scott Hansen said the reviews applied contemporary risk management frameworks to rigorous scientific investigation of the impacts of paraquat and diquat on human health and the environment.
“Both chemicals remain available for use with significant new restrictions on application rates and permitted uses,” Mr Hansen said.
“To protect users from acute exposure, new restrictions will phase out backpack sprayers and require enclosed mixing and loading systems for all uses, and enhanced personal protection equipment.
“Overall, the maximum rate of application on paraquat and diquat will be 231grams per hectare, when it was previously 1150 grams per hectare.”
A higher application rate applies to technology assisted spot spraying where application is capped at 30% of total area.
Detailed information on new registration conditions for paraquat and diquat are available in the APVMA Special Gazette, 23 June 2026.
These restrictions are driven by acute toxicity risks for people handling the Schedule 7 poisons and a detailed assessment of data showing acute and chronic exposure risks to birds and mammals foraging in treated areas.
During the review process the APVMA received 171 submissions from scientists, doctors, the agricultural industry and other interested parties. Submissions on paraquat and diquat included a range of concerns including human health impact, farming viability and environmental impact.
The APVMA considered submissions which provided detailed scientific information or argument in line with contemporary international data requirements and test guidelines.
In making its decision, the APVMA found the weight of evidence does not show that paraquat exposure through approved uses increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
New registration conditions will apply to the labels of all paraquat and diquat products manufactured from today. Existing stock will be phased out over a two-year period, allowing the industry to identify and adopt alternative weed management strategies, and prepare for the implementation of new occupational health and safety measures.
Further information on this decision can be found on the APVMA website, including:
- APVMA Special Gazette, 23 June 2026
- Paraquat Final Review Technical Report
- Diquat Final Review Technical Report
- Paraquat and diquat final regulatory decisions – consideration of submissions
- Paraquat final regulatory decision – consideration of neurotoxicity submissions
Media contact: media@apvma.gov.au