Australian OGTR Receives Application for Field Trial of GM Wheat and Barley

ISAAA December 7, 2023

The Australian Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has received a license application (DIR 201) from The University of Adelaide to conduct a field trial of genetically modified (GM) wheat and barley with yield enhancement.

The trial is proposed to take place between May 2024 and January 2029, on one site with a maximum area of 2 hectares per year. The trial site is located in Light Regional Council in South Australia. The trial would be subject to control measures that restrict the spread and persistence of GM plants and their introduced genetic material. The GM wheat and barley would not be used for human food or animal feed.

The OGTR is preparing a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) for the application, which is expected to be released for public comment and advice from experts, agencies, and authorities in January 2024. There will be at least 30 days for the submission of comments.

For more information, including the notice of application and a summary of the license application, visit the DIR 201 page on the OGTR website.