DIR 216 Commercial release of cotton genetically modified for insect resistance and herbicide tolerance (Bollgard® 3 ThryvOn™ cotton with XtendFlex® Technology)

Between 15 July and 9 September 2025, we sought your feedback on the consultation version of the Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) prepared for the DIR 216 licence application (commercial release of genetically modified cotton from Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd).

During the 8-week consultation period, we received advice from prescribed Government agencies, the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee, and the public.

We heard support for:

• the overall conclusions of the RARMP
• the licence conditions for DIR 216

We also heard concerns for:

• the potential negative impacts on people and the environment
• the cumulative risks of the introduced genes
• the potential for increased weediness as a result of the introduced genes

We analysed the feedback provided during the public consultation process in finalising the RARMP. The issues raised and how they were addressed can be found in Appendices C and D of the final RARMP.

The Gene Technology Regulator issued a licence to Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd for the commercial release of a genetically modified (GM) cotton on 07 October 2025. More details, including the final version of the RARMP and the licence, are available at DIR 216 | Office of the Gene Technology Regulator.

We appreciate all those who provided input to the consultation – your feedback will help to ensure that any risks posed by gene technology to people and the environment continue to be managed.