Nursery Papers – Navigating pesticide regulation in horticulture

Safeguarding access through industry coordination

Introduction:

Australia’s horticulture industry is operating in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Domestic and international bodies are intensifying scrutiny of pesticide use in response to growing concerns about environmental sustainability, food safety and trade standards.

Many growers have historically taken a reactive approach to pesticide regulation, often discovering limitations only after key products are withdrawn or restricted due to regulatory changes. This reactive approach risks disruptions to roduction and export markets. To address this, the industry must adopt a coordinated, orward-looking strategy that unites voices across sectors, demystifies complex regulatory processes and anticipates emerging threats.

The Regulatory Support & Response Coordination project (MT24008) delivers this critical strategic framework. Building on the success of the earlier MT20007 project, it offers expert-led engagement with regulators and a structured approach to safeguarding pesticide access, ensuring the horticulture sector remains resilient and competitive.

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