Australia: Agricultural Biotechnology Annual

The Australian federal government’s strong support for biotechnology is evident in its considerable long-term funding commitment to research and development. Despite the contentious nature of biotech in Australia, the federal government remains a strong proponent, investing heavily in research and development and approving various genetically engineered crops for commercial use. Although many states initially imposed restrictions on biotech, most have since lifted their moratoria, allowing the cultivation of genetically engineered crops like canola, cotton, etc. While Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory maintain bans, the rest of the mainland states now permit farmers to grow federally approved genetically engineered crops