Australian vegetable growers face continued challenges in navigating changes to agrichemical regulations and access. In response, Hort Innovation has commissioned the new National Agrichemical Management Program, delivered by AUSVEG, to help guide growers through this evolving landscape and ensure long-term industry resilience. 

The initiative is designed to keep the Australian vegetable, onion and potato industry globally competitive, well-informed, and profitable, while reliably supplying high-quality produce that meets both domestic and international market requirements. To achieve this, national leadership and coordinated action are essential. 

The current regulatory landscape for agrichemicals and crop protectant products is undergoing significant transformation. Traditional synthetic chemicals are becoming less available, new biological options are emerging, and data requirements for renewing existing permits and accessing new ones are increasing. At the same time, lead times for data collection are extending. These shifts are creating uncertainty for growers around maintaining access to the right agrichemicals now and into the future. 

To address this, the program is introducing a National Agrichemical Manager, David Daniels from AUSVEG, to lead intensive national consultation with vegetable growers. It will also strengthen Australia’s export capabilities by closely monitoring overseas Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and raising awareness among export trade participants. 

Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation, explained what this means for the industry: “This program is about future-proofing the industry. We’re investing in national leadership to ensure growers have access to the tools and information they need to navigate regulatory change, protect market access, and continue producing world-class vegetables.” 

David Daniels, National Agrichemical Manager at AUSVEG, shared how this will support growers: “This five-year program will focus on securing ongoing access to effective agrichemicals and coordinating industry input into identifying and prioritising crop protection gaps. This important work will support the development of practical solutions to meet both domestic and export market requirements and help ensure Australian vegetable, potato and onion growers have access to the tools they need to continue supplying world-class produce to Australian and international consumers.” 

Hort Innovation remains committed to supporting the vegetable industry through strategic investments that safeguard productivity and sustainability.  

To find out more about the project or sign up for an Agrichemical Reference Group contact David at david.daniels@ausveg.com.au 

This project (MT24023) is funded by the vegetable, potato, potato processing and onion research and development levies and contributions from the Australian Government.