Further Enquiries:

Research Branch
THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE
SA 5005
AUSTRALIA
Research Branch Email

Telephone: +61 8 8313 5137
Facsimile: +61 8 8313 3700

ORECI Facsimile:
+61 8 8313 7325
ORECI Email

Dealings with genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

LATEST NEWS: Changes to Gene Technology Regulations 2001

The revised Gene Technology Regulations 2001 became effective 1 September 2011. The categories of dealings are listed in the Schedules to the Regulations.

The Gene Technology legislation regulates all dealings with GMOs. A person who deals with a GMO (without an appropriate approval) is guilty of an offence under the legislation. The University of Adelaide IBC must be advised of all GMO work undertaken by university staff and students and of all GMO work undertaken within University premises by non University personnel.

What is a GMO	The Gene Technology Act provides a definition of the meaning of genetically modified organism. What is a GMO?
What is not a GMO	In accordance with the Act, there are several techniques that do not constitute gene technology and several organisms that are not GMOs for the purposes of regulation. If the work you are undertaking involves only these techniques and/or organisms then you only need to record that you have determined that you are not required to apply for approval under the GT Act. Techniques that are not gene technology Organisms that are not genetically modified organisms
Exempt Dealings	The list of host/vector systems permitted for exempt dealings has been expanded. Which dealings are exempt and how do I register an exempt dealing?
Notifiable Low Risk Dealings	There are two 'kinds' of Notifiable low risk dealings — some NLRDs can be undertaken in certified PC1 level containment facilities, whilst all others must be undertaken in certified PC2 level containment facilities. Which dealings are NLRDs and how do I register an NLRD?
Licensed Dealings	A dealing that is not a notifiable low risk dealing, or an exempt dealing, can be undertaken only by a person who is licensed. There are two categories of licence which can be applied for: DNIR - A dealing not involving the intentional release of a GMO into the environment DIR - A dealing involving the intentional release of a GMO into the environment Which dealings require a licence and how do I apply for a licence?