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Community Awareness of Hazardous Substances

Information about using hazardous substances is now available in English, Vietnamese and Khmer languages.

For more information and to download a copy of the booklet...

2,4-D Restrictions

High-volatile ester formulations of 2,4-D (ethyl, butyl and iso-butyl esters) can be used between 1 May and 31 August. They should not be sprayed within 1.5 km of grapevines or other susceptible crops. All users must make and keep a record of any application of high-volatile 2,4-D ester within 24 hours of completing the application.

Low-volatile and non-volatile formulations of 2,4-D can be used at any time of the year, provided that all label directions are followed. All 2,4-D products must be applied when the wind speed is 3–15 km/hr, as measured at the application site, and droplet size must not be smaller than coarse to very coarse according to the ASAE S572 definition for standard nozzles.

For more information refer to 2,4-D Products - Restrictions on Use

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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. It does, however, provide a reference to InFINDer which is a commercial database developed and maintained by Rural Chemicals Program and which contains information on all agricultural and veterinary chemicals registered in Australia. Click here to be taken to the InFINDer page on this website.

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.