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9. Are GM products safe?
The development of all gene technology research and GM products is regulated in Australia.
Research guidelines, environmental impacts, food safety tests (including the safety of imported GM products), food labelling, and the development of pharmaceuticals are all subject to strict regulation. These apply right through to the point of sale for GM foods.
There is no evidence from around the world to suggest that approved GM foods and crops have resulted in any harm to human health and the environment, since their commercialisation in 1996. In fact numerous reputable international agencies have concluded, on a case-by-case basis, that approved GM foods are as safe as their conventional counterparts.
10. Who is responsible for ensuring that gene technology research is conducted safely?
The Gene Technology Regulator is responsible for overseeing gene technology research and development in Australia. The Regulator has the support of two committees – the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee (GTTAC) and a Gene Technology Ethics and Community Consultative Committee (GTECCC) to advise her.
Australia’s national gene technology regulatory system started on 21 June 2001. This system is a result of the Gene Technology Act 2000 legislation that was passed through Parliament in 2000.
11. Is the new gene technology legislation enforcable?
All organisations/individuals involved in gene technology research must be approved, or licensed by the Regulator. Breaches of license conditions, or operating without licenses can attract fines of up to $220,000 for an individual or $1.1 million for an organisation.
The Regulator also has the power to access all gene technology research sites for auditing and monitoring purposes.
12. How can I find out about the gene technology research that has been licensed in Australia?
All licence approvals involving GMOs and GM products in Australia are available on the Regulator’s website – www.ogtr.gov.au
The Regulator’s website allows people to search for a particular type of GMO or GM product, a particular modification, such as disease resistance, or the organisations involved in the research.
Individuals can also have their details added to a mailing list so that they are notified in writing of any license applications that come before the Regulator for approval. To be added to the OGTR mailing list, email ogtr@health.gov.au or telephone 1800 181 030.
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