Proposed Amendments to the Gene Technology Regulations 2001

Overview

We would like to thank all the stakeholders that took part in public consultation on the proposed amendments to the Gene Technology Act 2000 (GT Act) that occurred in late 2024.

Amendments to the Gene Technology Regulations 2001 (GT Regulations) are the next step in implementing the legislative reforms to underpin implementation of the remaining recommendations of the Third Review. The proposed amendments will ensure the National Gene Technology Scheme (the Scheme) maintains flexibility to deal with future developments and challenges.

Consultation with stakeholders is important in the development of legislation. It provides an opportunity for affected industries, regulated entities, academic institutions, researchers, and interested members of the public to review the proposed amendments to the legislation and consider how they may be impacted.

Consultation responses should be provided via the survey in the consultation hub. Where possible, reasoning and supporting information should be included. Providing responses via the survey in the consultation hub will ensure that input can be effectively considered against the relevant proposed amendments.

It is recommended that the questions in this consultation are considered in conjunction with the provided consultation paper, which describes the key amendments in detail, and provides context to the proposed changes. 

An information sheet on the proposed authorisation pathways has been included to support understanding of how certain dealings with GMOs may be treated under the new regulations. This is described in Part 3 of the consultation paper and can be downloaded below.

Please note that the proposed approach to amending the GT Regulations will be further refined following this consultation where appropriate or necessary in response to feedback on the consultation paper.

You do not have to provide a response to all questions - only those that you wish to provide relevant feedback on.

Why your views matter

Participation in this consultation provides stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute to the development of regulations that may affect them. Engaging in the consultation process allows individuals, organisations, and institutions to:

• Provide informed feedback on the proposed amendments;
• Identify potential implications for their sector, operations, or community;
• Support the creation of balanced and effective regulation through evidence-based input.

Stakeholder contributions are a important component of transparent and inclusive policy development. All submissions will be carefully considered to ensure the final regulations are well-informed and appropriately targeted.