Australia to approve GM sorghum field trial

The Gene Technology Regulator is currently assessing licence application DIR 153 from the University of Queensland. The application is for a field trial (limited and controlled release) of sorghum genetically modified for grain quality traits. The purpose of the field trial is to assess the agronomic characteristics, yield and grain quality of the GM sorghum plants under field conditions.

The trial is proposed to take place between October 2017 and June 2020 in south-east Queensland. In the first year, one site would be planted with an area of up to 1 hectare. In each of the second and third years up to 4 sites would be planted with a combined area of up to 5 hectares. The GM sorghum would not be used in human food or sold as animal feed.

A consultation Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) has been prepared, which concludes that the proposed release would pose negligible risk to human health and safety or to the environment. A range of draft licence conditions would limit the size, locations and duration of the release, as well as restrict the spread and persistence of the GMOs and the introduced genetic material.

The Regulator welcomes written submissions in order to finalise the RARMP, which will then inform the decision on whether or not to issue the licence. The consultation RARMP and related documents can be obtained from the OGTR website under What’s New or by contacting the Office. Submissions should be received by close of business on 26 June 2017.