Genetically modified (GM) canola trials took place in Tasmania between 1998 and 2000, before a statewide moratorium on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) was introduced.
When the moratorium began, landholders were granted permits, along with a site management plan to help manage regrowth of GM canola volunteers and reduce any remaining seed in the soil.
In 2004, a small amount of GM canola was also detected in imported seeds. This led to limited contamination on some properties. These landholders were given exemptions with site management plans.
Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) Regulated Crops Field Officers visit these sites up to three times a year to check for volunteers. This occurs because it is part of demonstrating that Tasmania is GMO-free under the moratorium.
GM Canola Site Sign-Off Framework
The GM Canola Site Sign-Off Framework (Framework) sets out how former GM canola sites can be signed off. A site can be signed off if it shows a low risk of GM canola regrowth and meets five criteria developed by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA).
The criteria consider:
How much time has passed since GM canola was last grown;
Whether any volunteers appear after cultivation;
The recorded history of the site;
Scientific modelling that shows the seedbank has reduced to very low levels; and
Whether there are any remaining risks.
If a site does not meet all five criteria it is not eligible for sign-off and will remain under regulation as per the permit conditions.
If a site satisfies all five criteria, it may be signed off. This means that:
Permits are surrendered and exemptions are revoked;
The site will no longer receive inspections; and
Canola can be grown without needing to advise NRE Tas.
However:
Growing GM canola remains prohibited; and
Any suspected GM canola plants must be reported as per the Notice published on page 690 of the Tasmanian Government Gazette on 9 April 2008 (Gazette No. 2 157).
GM Canola Site Sign Off Framework (PDF 166Kb)
What if canola volunteers appear at a site it is signed off?
If canola volunteers occur at a signed-off site, the risk of them being genetically modified is very low. They only need to be reported if there is a reasonable suspicion that they are genetically modified. Unusual or unexpected responses to glyphosate or glufosinate ammonium may indicate that volunteers are genetically modified.
If suspected GM canola volunteers are identified, the property owner is not in breach of the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004, but must report any plants reasonably suspected of being genetically modified.
Reporting suspected GM Canola
To report suspected GM canola: