DIR-218 Commercial release of tomato genetically modified for purple fruit colour

Between 8 September and 3 November 2025, we sought your feedback on the consultation version of the Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) prepared for licence application DIR 218 for the commercial release of a genetically modified (GM) tomato from All Aussie Avocados Pty Ltd, trading as All Aussie Farmers.

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 218

We also heard concerns for:

• the potential negative impacts on people and the environment
• the potential for horizontal gene transfer of the antibiotic resistance gene
• 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 B and C of the final RARMP.

The Gene Technology Regulator issued a licence to All Aussie Avocados Pty Ltd for the commercial release of a GM tomato on 6 January 2026. More details, including the final version of the RARMP and the licence, are available at DIR 218 | 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.