Choosing the right chemicals

Support for efficient chemical use

The Managing Pesticides in Great Barrier Reef catchment areas project:

  • provides assistance to agricultural businesses to reduce chemical expenses and waste
  • supports the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program.

Before using chemicals, ask yourself:

  • Have you identified the insect, weed or disease?
  • Is chemical control necessary? Are there other methods of control?
  • What's nearby? Are there neighbouring crops, bodies of water, or sensitive areas such as schools?
  • What are your intended markets for the produce? Are there additional restrictions on chemicals that can be used?

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) PubCRIS database lets you search for information about registered agvet chemical products. This database includes the product name, registering company, active constituents, product category, and host and pest information. Once you find a product in PUBCRIS, in most cases you will also be able to see a copy of the product's label.

Other resources to help you identify pests or diseases include private consultants, veterinarians, the Queensland Government's Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) grower help desk (GrowHelp) or specialists located at DAF research stations.

Off-label permits

You can search for information on minor use permits and emergency use permits on the APVMA permits database.

If there are no products registered or permitted to control the pest or disease in a particular situation, you can apply for a permit from the APVMA.

Also consider...