Australia allows paraquat herbicide despite Parkinson's disease links

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 21:50 · Archive

Australia has allowed continued use of paraquat, a herbicide banned in over 70 countries and linked to Parkinson's disease.

Australia's Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority approved the continued use of paraquat in June, allowing the highly toxic herbicide to remain on the market with restrictions. The decision permits application at reduced rates and requires closed-valve packaging to prevent physical contact. A two-year grace period applies to products with previously approved warning labels, with a phase-out planned for use on certain crops including sugar cane.

Paraquat, which destroys plant tissue on contact, has long been associated with Parkinson's disease and is banned in more than 70 countries. Greg Smith, a 73-year-old Queensland cattle farmer, is among those questioning the decision. He was exposed to paraquat as a child while helping his father spray crops in the 1960s and was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2022. His father died suddenly, his middle brother developed Motor Neurone Disease and his eldest brother is undergoing cancer treatment.

Independent politicians and health campaigners continue to sound alarms about the risks, with a Senate inquiry in progress. A US expert has warned that Australia should consider the consequences of being wrong about the health hazards posed by the chemical.

How it is being reported

• 'Serious harm': all eyes on Australia over toxic sprayAustralia should consider the consequences of being wrong about the health risks posed by a toxic chemical long linked to Parkinson's disease, a US expert says.The West Australian · 30 Oct, 21:32
• 'Serious harm': all eyes on Australia over toxic sprayAustralia should consider the consequences of being wrong about the health risks posed by a toxic chemical long linked to Parkinson's disease, a US expert says.Perth Now · 30 Oct, 21:32

In this story: Greg Smith · Queensland · Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority · Australia

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