Who is responsible for regulating Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and GM products in Australia?
Who is responsible for regulating Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and GM products in Australia?
In many instances people are unaware that Australia even has regulators checking this stuff. But we do and the main one involved in assessing the safety of GMOs are listed below.
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR)
The OGTR provides administrative support to the Gene Technology Regulator in the performance of their functions under the Gene Technology Act 2000.
OGTR administers a national scheme for the regulation of genetically modified organisms in Australia to protect the health and safety of Australians and the Australian environment by identifying risks posed by gene technology, and by managing those risks through regulating certain dealings with GMOs. (http://www.ogtr.gov.au/)
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ)
FSANZ is an independent statutory agency established by the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991. Working within an integrated food regulatory system involving the governments of Australia and the New Zealand Government, FSANZ set food standards for the two countries. All genetically modified foods intended for sale in Australia and New Zealand must undergo a safety evaluation by FSANZ.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)
ACCC administers the Trade Practices Act (1974) and the Prices Surveillance Act (1983), to protect consumers from unfair trading, and false, misleading, and deceptive conduct. (www.accc.gov.au)
Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS)
AQIS develop policies and procedures relating to incoming passengers, mail, animals and plants, that have quarantine significance. This includes genetically manipulated products imported into Australia that may pose a pest and disease risk. (http://www.aqis.gov.au/)
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)
APVMA is responsible for the system which evaluates, registers and regulates agricultural and veterinary chemicals. (www.apvma.gov.au)
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
TGA is responsible for administrating the provisions of the Therapeutic Goods Act (1989), which provides a national framework for the regulation of therapeutic goods in Australia to ensure their quality, safety and efficacy. GM pharmaceuticals are addressed under this system. (www.tga.gov.au)