No GE-free zones for Victoria

Agriculture Victoria has confirmed that it will not be seeking to create genetic engineering-free (GE-free) zones in Victoria, at least for the time being.

The news follows a recent decision by the Gene Technology Ministerial Council to examine the possibility of allowing states to set GE-free zones.

Executive director Dr Bruce Kefford said that an examination of the feasibility of GE-free zones released as a discussion paper late last year had concluded that the implementation of GE-free zones would be costly and presented a number of practical difficulties.

The report was prepared after public consultation with a wide range of organisations and individuals including the agrifood sector, local government and the community.

"We want producers to have the flexibility to respond to market changes," said Kefford.

Kefford said that the government would continue to work closely with local councils to ensure that any GM (genetic modification) activities were well managed.

Local councils in Victoria are divided on the issue, with some shires having declared an interest in becoming GE-free in recent months.

According to Kefford, Agriculture Victoria and the NRE have a significant biotechnology program using GM technology.

Under the NRE's protocol for biotechnology, any activities involving gene technology must be performed in compliance with all State and Federal regulations, demonstrably in the public interest, and transparent and publicly accountable.