Australia
September 19, 2022
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has received a licence application (DIR 194) from Grasslanz Technology Australia Pty Limited to conduct a field trial of genetically modified (GM) perennial ryegrass with increased metabolisable energy content. A summary of the application is posted on our website.
The trial is proposed to take place between April 2023 and December 2028 with a maximum area of 2.5 hectares per year, and up to 12.5 hectares in total over the duration of the trial. A maximum of 7 trial sites per year would be used, chosen from 119 LGAs in New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, and Queensland. The trial would be subject to control measures that restrict the spread and persistence of the GM plants and their introduced genetic material. The GM perennial ryegrass grown in the field trial would not be used for commercial animal feed. However, animal feeding trials may be undertaken with silage produced from the GM perennial ryegrass.
The OGTR is preparing a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan for the application. This is expected to be released for public comment and advice from experts, agencies and authorities in late November 2022. There will be at least 30 days for submission of comments.
If you have any questions or would like to receive a copy of the full application or the summary, please contact the OGTR and quote the reference number DIR 194.
Office of the Gene Technology Regulator
MDP 54 GPO Box 9848 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Telephone: 1800 181 030 E-mail: ogtr@health.gov.au
OGTR website
Link to the application:
https://www.ogtr.gov.au/gmo-dealings/dealings-involving-intentional-release/dir-194
DIR 194
Limited and controlled release of perennial ryegrass genetically modified for increased metabolisable energy content
Licence details
Licence number: DIR 194
Licence status: Application under evaluation
Category: Agricultural
Release: Limited and controlled
Organisation: Grasslanz Technology Australia Pty Limited
Date application received: 24 July 2022
Documents
Licence application - notification
Information for the public and stakeholders that the Regulator has received an application for a licence. It provides early information about the application and the assessment process including a future opportunity for public submissions.
Licence application - summary
A summary of the application including brief description of the GMO(s) and proposed work with GMO(s). Also explains the assessment and public consultation process.
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