Agricultural and veterinary chemicals are important tools in primary production systems. When used correctly, they play a valuable role in maximising the quality and yield of primary produce. However, product integrity, the environment and human health can be put at risk when they are not used correctly.

The Rural Chemicals Program of PIRSA promotes the safe and responsible use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals. It is responsible for developing policies and projects that identify and manage risks to trade, food safety, environmental protection and community health arising from the use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals.

Some functions of Rural Chemicals Program are to:

• Assist the review and maintenance of relevant legislation
• Advise the Minister on policy issues and general matters related to rural chemicals
• Develop and administer compliance systems related to use of rural chemicals
• Disseminate regulatory and technical information on rural chemicals
• Contribute to national rural chemical policy issues that affect SA
• Assist Local Government with Development Applications to minimise potential chemical use conflicts.

This site contains information about:

• Federal and State legislation controlling the use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals in Australia
• Responsible use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals - how to manage chemical trespass and the regulatory role that PIRSA Rural Chemicals Program has regarding chemical trespass
• Agricultural and veterinary chemical residues in produce, and food safety issues
• Education and community awareness programs regarding chemical use.

This site does not provide recommendations on agricultural and veterinary chemicals, ie what product to use in a particular situation to control a particular problem. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Aurthority (APVMA) website (external site) includes a database of all agricultural and veterinary chemicals registered in Australia.

This site also does not provide information on fertilisers. The Fertiliser Industry Federation of Australia (external site) has general information on fertilisers. Fertiliser recommendations can be obtained from the manufacturers or plant nutrition consultants.