Australia's Gene Technology Regulator, Dr Sue Meek, today announced that she has issued the first licence under the new Gene Technology Act to trial a genetically modified crop.

The licence permits Cotton Seed Distributors Ltd to carry out a limited and controlled release of two types of genetically modified insecticidal or insecticidal and herbicide resistant cotton on a 122 hectares site in the shire of Emerald in Queensland.

Both types of cotton have been previously trialed in Australia under the former voluntary system that was overseen by the Genetic Manipulation Advisory Committee.

In reaching her decision, Dr Meek said she had consulted extensively with the public, State and Territory governments, Commonwealth agencies, the Federal Environment Minister and the relevant local councils about the proposed trial.

"I also sought the expert advice of the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee (GTTAC), which has been established under the new Gene Technology Act," Dr Meek said.

"The Committee thoroughly scrutinised the application and endorsed the risk management strategy that was developed by my Office.

"I have placed a number of conditions on the new licence including monitoring provisions and requirement that research be undertaken during the trial which will give valuable information to assist me in making future determinations.

"It will also ensure that any breaches of the licence conditions will be quickly identified and immediately addressed."

Details of the licence conditions, including the specific location of the release can be found on the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator website at www.ogtr.gov.au