Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Act 1988
In ForceQLD
Jurisdiction
Queensland
Act Number
103 of 1988
Collection
act
Plain English Summary
7/10 complexity
This Act controls the labelling, use, storage, sale, recall and disposal of agricultural and veterinary chemicals and chemical residues. It creates criminal and administrative duties for farmers, manufacturers, dealers, veterinarians, pharmacists and corporate officers, and empowers standards officers and inspectors to inspect, seize, require records, impose withholding periods and issue permits. It matters because it imposes clear compliance costs and behavioural rules (labelling, recordkeeping, animal identification and withholding), gives officials broad discretion to regulate or prohibit use, and enables enforcement including seizure and forfeiture.
This Act establishes a statutory framework for controlling the use, supply, storage, possession, recall and investigation of agricultural and veterinary chemicals and chemical residues. Mechanically, it does the following.
Creates office-holders and operational roles. It recognises a standards officer and deputy standards officers (ss 4B-4D), and permits appointment of inspectors and analysts by the chief executive, subject to expertise requirements and limits on powers (s 5, s 5A). Identity cards and production requirements for inspectors are mandated (ss 5B-5C).
Links terminology and permitting to the Agvet Code by adoption of the same definitions where relevant (s 4A). Several provisions are described as “eligible law” for the definition of permit under the Agvet Code (for example ss 7, 12, 13, 13E).
Controls use of chemical products. It proscribes using registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products contrary to approved label instructions (ss 7, 12, 13). It also prohibits making claims about unregistered chemicals and, generally, using unregistered agricultural or veterinary products except where authorised by permit or specified exceptions (ss 11A, 13A, 12E).
Creates special treatment for veterinary practice. Veterinary surgeons have narrowly defined authorities to use, prescribe, supply or recommend products outside label instructions in limited circumstances (ss 12A-12D), and to use or supply some unregistered, compounded or otherwise non-standard products in defined situations (ss 12E-12L). Detailed information, record-keeping and retention requirements attach to these uses (ss 12M-12R, 12O, 12Q).
Regulates chemical residues and withholding periods. The Act allows maximum residue limits to be zero (s 6) and creates duties to identify and report residues (s 15). It gives standards officers and inspectors power to issue notices to prevent use, disposal or supply of substances suspected of exceeding residue limits and to direct cultivation, grazing or keeping of animals (s 16). Withholding periods are defined and enforced (ss 12S-12V).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Act 1988.
106
pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Act 1988 .
s 1 amd 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1
sec.2
Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This section and section 1 shall commence on the day on which this Act is assented to for and on behalf of Her Majesty.
Except as provided by subsection (1) , this Act or the provisions thereof specified in the proclamation shall commence on the day or days appointed by proclamation for the commencement of this Act or, as the case may be, those provisions.
(sec.2-ssec.1) This section and section 1 shall commence on the day on which this Act is assented to for and on behalf of Her Majesty.
(sec.2-ssec.2) Except as provided by subsection (1) , this Act or the provisions thereof specified in the proclamation shall commence on the day or days appointed by proclamation for the commencement of this Act or, as the case may be, those provisions.
sec.3
Section sec.3
s 3 om 15 March 1995 RA s 36
sec.4
Definitions
sec.4 Definitions
The dictionary in the schedule defines particular words used in this Act.
s 4 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
Note—prev s 4 contained definitions for this Act. Definitions are now located in schedule (Dictionary). Annotations for definitions contained in prev s 4 are located in annotations for schedule.
amd 2001 No. 63 s 4
sec.4A
Words and expressions used in Agvet Code and this Act
sec.4A Words and expressions used in Agvet Code and this Act
Words and expressions used in the Agvet Code and this Act have the same meanings in this Act as they have in the Agvet Code .
Words and expressions mentioned in subsection (1) that are expressly defined in section 3 of the Agvet Code are also signposted in the dictionary.
s 4A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2002 No. 76 s 18
(sec.4A-ssec.1) Words and expressions used in the Agvet Code and this Act have the same meanings in this Act as they have in the Agvet Code .
(sec.4A-ssec.2) Words and expressions mentioned in subsection (1) that are expressly defined in section 3 of the Agvet Code are also signposted in the dictionary.
sec.4B
Appointment of standards officers
sec.4B Appointment of standards officers
A standards officer and deputy standards officers may be employed under the Public Sector Act 2022 .
s 4B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 1996 No. 37 s 147 sch 2 ; 2009 No. 25 s 83 sch ; 2022 No. 34 s 365 sch 3
sec.4C
Powers and functions of standards officers
sec.4C Powers and functions of standards officers
The standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this or another Act.
A deputy standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this Act or by the standards officer.
s 4C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.4C-ssec.1) The standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this or another Act.
(sec.4C-ssec.2) A deputy standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this Act or by the standards officer.
sec.4D
Delegation by standards officer
sec.4D Delegation by standards officer
The standards officer may delegate to a deputy standards officer or another officer of the department the standards officer’s powers under this or another Act, including any powers delegated to the standards officer under this or another Act.
s 4D ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
sec.5
Appointment of inspectors and analysts
sec.5 Appointment of inspectors and analysts
The chief executive may appoint a person to be an inspector or analyst.
The chief executive may appoint a person as an inspector or analyst only if the chief executive is satisfied that the person has the necessary expertise or experience.
In this section—
inspector does not include the standards officer or a deputy standards officer.
s 5 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 1996 No. 13 s 10
(sec.5-ssec.1) The chief executive may appoint a person to be an inspector or analyst.
(sec.5-ssec.2) The chief executive may appoint a person as an inspector or analyst only if the chief executive is satisfied that the person has the necessary expertise or experience.
(sec.5-ssec.3) In this section— inspector does not include the standards officer or a deputy standards officer.
sec.5A
Limitation of inspector’s powers
sec.5A Limitation of inspector’s powers
The powers of an inspector may be limited—
under a regulation; or
under a condition of appointment; or
by written notice of the chief executive given to the inspector.
s 5A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(a) under a regulation; or
(b) under a condition of appointment; or
(c) by written notice of the chief executive given to the inspector.
sec.5B
Inspector’s identity card
sec.5B Inspector’s identity card
The chief executive must give each inspector an identity card.
The identity card must—
contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and
be signed by the inspector; and
identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
A person who ceases to be an inspector must return the person’s identity card to the chief executive as soon as practicable (but within 21 days) after the person ceases to be an inspector, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
This section does not prevent the giving of a single identity card to a person under this Act and for other Acts or purposes.
s 5B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.5B-ssec.1) The chief executive must give each inspector an identity card.
(sec.5B-ssec.2) The identity card must— contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and be signed by the inspector; and identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
(sec.5B-ssec.3) A person who ceases to be an inspector must return the person’s identity card to the chief executive as soon as practicable (but within 21 days) after the person ceases to be an inspector, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.5B-ssec.4) This section does not prevent the giving of a single identity card to a person under this Act and for other Acts or purposes.
(a) contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and
(b) be signed by the inspector; and
(c) identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
sec.5C
Production or display of inspector’s identity card
sec.5C Production or display of inspector’s identity card
An inspector may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the inspector—
first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or
has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the inspector must produce the identity card for the person’s inspection at the first reasonable opportunity.
s 5C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.5C-ssec.1) An inspector may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the inspector— first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
(sec.5C-ssec.2) However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the inspector must produce the identity card for the person’s inspection at the first reasonable opportunity.
(a) first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or
(b) has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
sec.6
Maximum residue limit
sec.6 Maximum residue limit
The maximum residue limit prescribed under this Act for any of the following may be zero—
agricultural produce;
manufactured stock food;
the tissue of a trade species animal;
a product derived from a trade species animal.
s 6 amd 2014 No. 7 s 517
(a) agricultural produce;
(b) manufactured stock food;
(c) the tissue of a trade species animal;
(d) a product derived from a trade species animal.
pt.2
Use of chemicals and substances having chemical residues
Use of chemicals and substances having chemical residues
pt.2-div.1
Chemicals generally
Chemicals generally
sec.7
Use of registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products taken from unlabelled containers
sec.7 Use of registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products taken from unlabelled containers
A person must not use a registered agricultural or veterinary chemical product taken from a container that does not have attached to it an approved label for containers for the product.
Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply if the product was taken from a container with a label for which the APVMA issued a permit.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove—
the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or
the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 7 prev s 7 sub 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1
om 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
pres s 7 ins 2002 No. 76 s 19
amd 2006 No. 48 s 48 sch
(sec.7-ssec.1) A person must not use a registered agricultural or veterinary chemical product taken from a container that does not have attached to it an approved label for containers for the product. Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
(sec.7-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the product was taken from a container with a label for which the APVMA issued a permit.
(sec.7-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove— the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
(sec.7-ssec.4) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
(a) the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or
(b) the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
sec.8
Use of controlled chemicals
sec.8 Use of controlled chemicals
A regulation may—
declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and
set conditions for use of the chemical.
A person must not use a controlled chemical in a way that contravenes a condition for use of the chemical.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
s 8 prev s 8 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(5)–(6) exp 15 March 1997 (see s 8(6))
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
pres s 8 (prev s 8E) ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2002 No. 76 s 22 (1)
renum 2002 No. 76 s 22 (2)
(sec.8-ssec.1) A regulation may— declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and set conditions for use of the chemical.
(sec.8-ssec.2) A person must not use a controlled chemical in a way that contravenes a condition for use of the chemical. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
(a) declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and
(b) set conditions for use of the chemical.
sec.8A
Section sec.8A
s 8A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2001 No. 63 s 5
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
sec.8B
Section sec.8B
s 8B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
sec.8C
Section sec.8C
s 8C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
sec.9
Person not to possess or use proscribed chemical
sec.9 Person not to possess or use proscribed chemical
A person shall not have in his or her possession or use a proscribed chemical unless the person has the written permission of the Minister to do so and the person’s possession or, as the case may be, use of the chemical is in accordance with the terms and conditions of the permit.
Maximum penalty—800 penalty units.
This provision is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
s 9 amd 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2015 No. 15 s 61
sec.10
Person not to dispose of package or chemical in improper manner
sec.10 Person not to dispose of package or chemical in improper manner
A person shall not dispose of or discard a chemical, or a package that contains or has contained a chemical, in a manner—
such that harm is caused or is likely to be caused to the property of any other person, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country; or
that is contrary to the manner (if any) prescribed.
(a) such that harm is caused or is likely to be caused to the property of any other person, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country; or
(b) that is contrary to the manner (if any) prescribed.
sec.11
Claims inconsistent with labels
sec.11 Claims inconsistent with labels
This section applies to a claim—
about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and
inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
For the purposes of section 84 (2) of the Agvet Code —
the standards officer or a deputy standards officer, or a person acting under the direction of either officer, may make a claim under this Act; and
an officer of the public service or another employee of the State may make a claim in the course of the person’s employment by the State; and
a person prescribed by regulation may make a claim in the circumstances prescribed by regulation.
Subsection (2) applies only if the claim is made honestly and without negligence.
s 11 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.11-ssec.1) This section applies to a claim— about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
(sec.11-ssec.2) For the purposes of section 84 (2) of the Agvet Code — the standards officer or a deputy standards officer, or a person acting under the direction of either officer, may make a claim under this Act; and an officer of the public service or another employee of the State may make a claim in the course of the person’s employment by the State; and a person prescribed by regulation may make a claim in the circumstances prescribed by regulation.
(sec.11-ssec.3) Subsection (2) applies only if the claim is made honestly and without negligence.
(a) about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and
(b) inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
(a) the standards officer or a deputy standards officer, or a person acting under the direction of either officer, may make a claim under this Act; and
(b) an officer of the public service or another employee of the State may make a claim in the course of the person’s employment by the State; and
(c) a person prescribed by regulation may make a claim in the circumstances prescribed by regulation.
sec.11A
Claims about unregistered chemicals
sec.11A Claims about unregistered chemicals
A person must not make a claim about the use of an unregistered chemical.
Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply if use of the unregistered chemical is authorised by a permit.
Subsection (1) also does not apply to the making or reporting of a statement about the unregistered chemical if the statement—
is made—
in a scientific paper or other scientific literature; or
in a scientific report or presentation; or
at a conference or seminar, or in an address, meeting or discussion, about chemical products;
and is based on data published in a reputable scientific refereed journal or of a standard publishable in a reputable scientific refereed journal; or
is made on radio or television, or in a newspaper, journal or newsletter, as fair comment on any material—
published for the purposes of a conference or seminar; and
based on data mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
is made by a veterinary surgeon about a use under section 12F .
s 11A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2002 No. 76 s 23
(sec.11A-ssec.1) A person must not make a claim about the use of an unregistered chemical. Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
(sec.11A-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if use of the unregistered chemical is authorised by a permit.
(sec.11A-ssec.3) Subsection (1) also does not apply to the making or reporting of a statement about the unregistered chemical if the statement— is made— in a scientific paper or other scientific literature; or in a scientific report or presentation; or at a conference or seminar, or in an address, meeting or discussion, about chemical products; and is based on data published in a reputable scientific refereed journal or of a standard publishable in a reputable scientific refereed journal; or is made on radio or television, or in a newspaper, journal or newsletter, as fair comment on any material— published for the purposes of a conference or seminar; and based on data mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or is made by a veterinary surgeon about a use under section 12F .
(a) is made— (i) in a scientific paper or other scientific literature; or (ii) in a scientific report or presentation; or (iii) at a conference or seminar, or in an address, meeting or discussion, about chemical products; and is based on data published in a reputable scientific refereed journal or of a standard publishable in a reputable scientific refereed journal; or
(i) in a scientific paper or other scientific literature; or
(ii) in a scientific report or presentation; or
(iii) at a conference or seminar, or in an address, meeting or discussion, about chemical products;
(b) is made on radio or television, or in a newspaper, journal or newsletter, as fair comment on any material— (i) published for the purposes of a conference or seminar; and (ii) based on data mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
(i) published for the purposes of a conference or seminar; and
(ii) based on data mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
(c) is made by a veterinary surgeon about a use under section 12F .
(i) in a scientific paper or other scientific literature; or
(ii) in a scientific report or presentation; or
(iii) at a conference or seminar, or in an address, meeting or discussion, about chemical products;
(i) published for the purposes of a conference or seminar; and
(ii) based on data mentioned in paragraph (a) ; or
sec.11B
Use of package that contained chemical
sec.11B Use of package that contained chemical
A person shall not use a package to contain any substance if the package has at any time contained a chemical.
Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
A person shall not be convicted of an offence defined in subsection (1) if—
the person uses the package to contain a chemical and the chemical was in the package at the time at which the person acquired the package; or
all trace of the chemical previously contained in the package is removed and the person uses the package to contain a chemical.
s 11B (prev s 12) amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch ; 2002 No. 76 s 24 (1)
renum 2002 No. 76 s 24 (2)
(sec.11B-ssec.1) A person shall not use a package to contain any substance if the package has at any time contained a chemical. Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
(sec.11B-ssec.2) A person shall not be convicted of an offence defined in subsection (1) if— the person uses the package to contain a chemical and the chemical was in the package at the time at which the person acquired the package; or all trace of the chemical previously contained in the package is removed and the person uses the package to contain a chemical.
(a) the person uses the package to contain a chemical and the chemical was in the package at the time at which the person acquired the package; or
(b) all trace of the chemical previously contained in the package is removed and the person uses the package to contain a chemical.
sec.11C
Governor in Council may proscribe chemicals
sec.11C Governor in Council may proscribe chemicals
This section applies if the chief executive is satisfied, on reasonable grounds, that it is in the public interest to proscribe a chemical having regard to the harm that may be caused by the use of the chemical to any property, human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade whether within Australia or overseas.
If this section applies, a regulation may proscribe a chemical.
s 11C (prev s 13) sub 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1 ; 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
renum 2002 No. 76 s 25
(sec.11C-ssec.1) This section applies if the chief executive is satisfied, on reasonable grounds, that it is in the public interest to proscribe a chemical having regard to the harm that may be caused by the use of the chemical to any property, human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade whether within Australia or overseas.
(sec.11C-ssec.2) If this section applies, a regulation may proscribe a chemical.
pt.2-div.2
Veterinary chemical products
Veterinary chemical products
sec.12
Use of registered veterinary chemical products
sec.12 Use of registered veterinary chemical products
A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product.
Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12A , 12B or 12C .
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use a registered veterinary chemical product other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product.
Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
Subsection (4) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (4) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12D .
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 12 ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2015 No. 15 s 62
(sec.12-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product. Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
(sec.12-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12A , 12B or 12C .
(sec.12-ssec.4) A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use a registered veterinary chemical product other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product. Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.12-ssec.5) Subsection (4) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12-ssec.6) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (4) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12D .
(sec.12-ssec.7) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
sec.12A
Use by veterinary surgeon on animals other than major trade species
sec.12A Use by veterinary surgeon on animals other than major trade species
A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product, to treat animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon other than major trade species animals.
However, subsection (1) does not allow a use—
contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
s 12A ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12A-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product, to treat animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon other than major trade species animals.
(sec.12A-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) does not allow a use— contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
(a) contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
(b) by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
sec.12B
Use by veterinary surgeon on major trade species animals
sec.12B Use by veterinary surgeon on major trade species animals
A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product, to treat—
if instructions for use on a major trade species animal are mentioned on the label—any major trade species animals; or
if there are no instructions for use on a major trade species animal mentioned on the label—a single major trade species animal.
Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
However, subsection (1) does not allow a use—
contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
s 12B ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12B-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a registered veterinary chemical product for use other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product, to treat— if instructions for use on a major trade species animal are mentioned on the label—any major trade species animals; or if there are no instructions for use on a major trade species animal mentioned on the label—a single major trade species animal.
(sec.12B-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
(sec.12B-ssec.3) However, subsection (1) does not allow a use— contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
(a) if instructions for use on a major trade species animal are mentioned on the label—any major trade species animals; or
(b) if there are no instructions for use on a major trade species animal mentioned on the label—a single major trade species animal.
(a) contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
(b) by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
sec.12C
Supply by veterinary surgeon to others
sec.12C Supply by veterinary surgeon to others
A veterinary surgeon may supply a registered veterinary chemical product that is not packed and labelled in the way stated in the Agvet Code —
for an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or
to another veterinary surgeon in the same veterinary practice.
However, subsection (1) (b) applies only if a pharmacologically equivalent registered veterinary chemical product with instructions for use for the particular animal species being treated is not reasonably available in the particular circumstances.
s 12C ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12C-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may supply a registered veterinary chemical product that is not packed and labelled in the way stated in the Agvet Code — for an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or to another veterinary surgeon in the same veterinary practice.
(sec.12C-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) (b) applies only if a pharmacologically equivalent registered veterinary chemical product with instructions for use for the particular animal species being treated is not reasonably available in the particular circumstances.
(a) for an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or
(b) to another veterinary surgeon in the same veterinary practice.
sec.12D
Use by other persons in way stated in veterinary surgeon’s instructions
sec.12D Use by other persons in way stated in veterinary surgeon’s instructions
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, may use a registered veterinary chemical product, other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product if the person uses the product in the way stated in written instructions given by the veterinary surgeon who prescribed, supplied or recommended the product.
However, subsection (1) does not allow a use—
contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
s 12D ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12D-ssec.1) A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, may use a registered veterinary chemical product, other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product if the person uses the product in the way stated in written instructions given by the veterinary surgeon who prescribed, supplied or recommended the product.
(sec.12D-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) does not allow a use— contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
(a) contrary to a restraint statement on the label other than to treat a single animal; or
(b) by injection unless the label gives instructions for use by injection.
sec.12E
Use of unregistered veterinary chemical products
sec.12E Use of unregistered veterinary chemical products
A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend an unregistered veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12F or 12G .
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use an unregistered veterinary chemical product to treat an animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
Subsection (4) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (4) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12H .
It is also a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) or (4) to prove—
the product was a registered veterinary chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and
the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and
the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and
the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container.
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 12E ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2015 No. 15 s 63
(sec.12E-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend an unregistered veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
(sec.12E-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12E-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12F or 12G .
(sec.12E-ssec.4) A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use an unregistered veterinary chemical product to treat an animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.12E-ssec.5) Subsection (4) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12E-ssec.6) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (4) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12H .
(sec.12E-ssec.7) It is also a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) or (4) to prove— the product was a registered veterinary chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container.
(sec.12E-ssec.8) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
(a) the product was a registered veterinary chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and
(b) the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and
(c) the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and
(d) the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container.
sec.12F
Use by veterinary surgeon
sec.12F Use by veterinary surgeon
A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend an unregistered veterinary chemical product for use to treat—
animals other than trade species animals; or
a single trade species animal.
Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
s 12F ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12F-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend an unregistered veterinary chemical product for use to treat— animals other than trade species animals; or a single trade species animal.
(sec.12F-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
(a) animals other than trade species animals; or
(b) a single trade species animal.
sec.12G
Supply by veterinary surgeon to others
sec.12G Supply by veterinary surgeon to others
A veterinary surgeon may supply an unregistered veterinary chemical product to another veterinary surgeon in the same veterinary practice.
However, subsection (1) applies only if a pharmacologically equivalent registered veterinary chemical product with instructions for use for the particular animal species being treated is not reasonably available in the particular circumstances.
s 12G ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12G-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may supply an unregistered veterinary chemical product to another veterinary surgeon in the same veterinary practice.
(sec.12G-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) applies only if a pharmacologically equivalent registered veterinary chemical product with instructions for use for the particular animal species being treated is not reasonably available in the particular circumstances.
sec.12H
Use by other persons in way stated in veterinary surgeon’s instructions
sec.12H Use by other persons in way stated in veterinary surgeon’s instructions
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, may use an unregistered veterinary chemical product to treat an animal in the way stated in written instructions given by the veterinary surgeon who prescribed, supplied or recommended the product.
s 12H ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
sec.12I
Use of compounded veterinary chemical products
sec.12I Use of compounded veterinary chemical products
A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12J .
A pharmacist must not supply a compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —600 penalty units.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (3) to prove the supply of the product was authorised under section 12K .
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use a compounded veterinary chemical product to treat an animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (5) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12L .
s 12I ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2015 No. 15 s 64
(sec.12I-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon must not use, or prescribe, supply or recommend a compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
(sec.12I-ssec.2) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used, or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use in a way authorised under section 12J .
(sec.12I-ssec.3) A pharmacist must not supply a compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —600 penalty units.
(sec.12I-ssec.4) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (3) to prove the supply of the product was authorised under section 12K .
(sec.12I-ssec.5) A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, must not use a compounded veterinary chemical product to treat an animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —600 penalty units. This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
(sec.12I-ssec.6) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (5) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 12L .
sec.12J
Use by veterinary surgeon
sec.12J Use by veterinary surgeon
A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend for use a compounded veterinary chemical product in a quantity needed for a single course of treatment of—
animals other than trade species animals; or
a single trade species animal.
Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
s 12J ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12J-ssec.1) A veterinary surgeon may use, or prescribe, supply or recommend for use a compounded veterinary chemical product in a quantity needed for a single course of treatment of— animals other than trade species animals; or a single trade species animal.
(sec.12J-ssec.2) Subsection (1) applies only to animals under the care of the veterinary surgeon.
(a) animals other than trade species animals; or
(b) a single trade species animal.
sec.12K
Supply by pharmacist
sec.12K Supply by pharmacist
A pharmacist may supply a compounded veterinary chemical product in a quantity needed for a single course of treatment.
s 12K ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
sec.12L
Use by other persons in way stated in written instructions
sec.12L Use by other persons in way stated in written instructions
A person, other than a veterinary surgeon, may use a compounded veterinary chemical product to treat an animal in the way stated in written instructions given by—
the veterinary surgeon who prescribed, supplied or recommended the product; or
the pharmacist who supplied the product.
s 12L ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(a) the veterinary surgeon who prescribed, supplied or recommended the product; or
(b) the pharmacist who supplied the product.
sec.12M
Information to be given by veterinary surgeon or pharmacist
sec.12M Information to be given by veterinary surgeon or pharmacist
This section applies to—
a veterinary surgeon who uses, or prescribes, supplies or recommends a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or
a pharmacist who supplies a compounded veterinary chemical product under a prescription given by a veterinary surgeon to treat an animal.
The veterinary surgeon or pharmacist must give to the person in charge of the animal at the time of the treatment full and appropriate instructions about the treatment including the instructions mentioned in section 12N .
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
For subsection (2) , the instructions—
must be in writing, which may include the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product (the label instructions ); and
must explain whether or not the label instructions form part of the instructions; and
must include an explanation of the meaning of the instructions including the meaning of the label instructions that are equivalent to the matters mentioned in section 12N ; and
for a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the label instructions—must include an explanation of the extent to which the label instructions do not form part of the instructions.
Subsection (2) applies to the treatment of an animal other than a trade species animal only if the treatment involves the use of—
a registered veterinary chemical product other than in a way stated in the label instructions; or
a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ; or
an unregistered veterinary chemical product; or
a compounded veterinary chemical product.
If the person who receives the instructions mentioned in subsection (2) is not usually in charge of the animal, the person must give the instructions to the person usually in charge of the animal when that person again becomes in charge of the animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —100 penalty units.
s 12M ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2019 No. 26 s 290 sch 2
(sec.12M-ssec.1) This section applies to— a veterinary surgeon who uses, or prescribes, supplies or recommends a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or a pharmacist who supplies a compounded veterinary chemical product under a prescription given by a veterinary surgeon to treat an animal.
(sec.12M-ssec.2) The veterinary surgeon or pharmacist must give to the person in charge of the animal at the time of the treatment full and appropriate instructions about the treatment including the instructions mentioned in section 12N . Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
(sec.12M-ssec.3) For subsection (2) , the instructions— must be in writing, which may include the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product (the label instructions ); and must explain whether or not the label instructions form part of the instructions; and must include an explanation of the meaning of the instructions including the meaning of the label instructions that are equivalent to the matters mentioned in section 12N ; and for a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the label instructions—must include an explanation of the extent to which the label instructions do not form part of the instructions.
(sec.12M-ssec.4) Subsection (2) applies to the treatment of an animal other than a trade species animal only if the treatment involves the use of— a registered veterinary chemical product other than in a way stated in the label instructions; or a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ; or an unregistered veterinary chemical product; or a compounded veterinary chemical product.
(sec.12M-ssec.5) If the person who receives the instructions mentioned in subsection (2) is not usually in charge of the animal, the person must give the instructions to the person usually in charge of the animal when that person again becomes in charge of the animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —100 penalty units.
(a) a veterinary surgeon who uses, or prescribes, supplies or recommends a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product for use to treat an animal under the care of the veterinary surgeon; or
(b) a pharmacist who supplies a compounded veterinary chemical product under a prescription given by a veterinary surgeon to treat an animal.
(a) must be in writing, which may include the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product (the label instructions ); and
(b) must explain whether or not the label instructions form part of the instructions; and
(c) must include an explanation of the meaning of the instructions including the meaning of the label instructions that are equivalent to the matters mentioned in section 12N ; and
(d) for a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the label instructions—must include an explanation of the extent to which the label instructions do not form part of the instructions.
(a) a registered veterinary chemical product other than in a way stated in the label instructions; or
(b) a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ; or
(c) an unregistered veterinary chemical product; or
(d) a compounded veterinary chemical product.
sec.12N
Information to be included in instructions
sec.12N Information to be included in instructions
For treatment of a trade species animal, the instructions mentioned in section 12M must include—
whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
the name of the product’s active constituent; and
the dosage; and
the frequency of the dosage; and
the treatment period; and
how the product is to be used to treat the animal; and
the species of animal to be treated; and
details to identify the particular animal; and
the date the product was used, prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and
the expiry date of the product; and
the name and address of the veterinary surgeon or pharmacist who gave the instructions; and
the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and
for a recommendation, the period the recommendation is to apply; and
other information prescribed under a regulation.
For treatment of an animal other than a trade species animal, the instructions mentioned in section 12M must include the matters mentioned in subsection (1) (b) to (p) .
s 12N ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12N-ssec.1) For treatment of a trade species animal, the instructions mentioned in section 12M must include— whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and the name of the product’s active constituent; and the dosage; and the frequency of the dosage; and the treatment period; and how the product is to be used to treat the animal; and the species of animal to be treated; and details to identify the particular animal; and the date the product was used, prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and the expiry date of the product; and the name and address of the veterinary surgeon or pharmacist who gave the instructions; and the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and for a recommendation, the period the recommendation is to apply; and other information prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12N-ssec.2) For treatment of an animal other than a trade species animal, the instructions mentioned in section 12M must include the matters mentioned in subsection (1) (b) to (p) .
(a) whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
(b) for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
(c) for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
(d) the name of the product’s active constituent; and
(e) the dosage; and
(f) the frequency of the dosage; and
(g) the treatment period; and
(h) how the product is to be used to treat the animal; and
(i) the species of animal to be treated; and
(j) details to identify the particular animal; and
(k) the date the product was used, prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and
(l) the expiry date of the product; and
(m) the name and address of the veterinary surgeon or pharmacist who gave the instructions; and
(n) the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and
(o) for a recommendation, the period the recommendation is to apply; and
(p) other information prescribed under a regulation.
sec.12O
Instructions must be kept
sec.12O Instructions must be kept
A person given instructions under section 12M , for treatment of trade species animals, must keep the instructions for—
the period prescribed under a regulation; or
if no period is prescribed—2 years.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
s 12O ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(a) the period prescribed under a regulation; or
(b) if no period is prescribed—2 years.
sec.12P
Information to be given to person in charge of animal
sec.12P Information to be given to person in charge of animal
This section applies to a person, other than a person mentioned in subsection (4) , who uses a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product to treat a trade species animal.
The person must give the person in charge of the animal at the time of the treatment, full and appropriate written advice about the treatment including any written instructions given by a veterinary surgeon or pharmacist.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
If the person who receives the advice is not usually in charge of the animal, the person must give the advice to the person usually in charge of the animal when that person again becomes in charge of the animal.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —100 penalty units.
This section does not apply to—
a veterinary surgeon; or
the person usually in charge of the animal; or
an employee of the person usually in charge of the animal who uses the product in the course of the employment.
s 12P ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12P-ssec.1) This section applies to a person, other than a person mentioned in subsection (4) , who uses a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product to treat a trade species animal.
(sec.12P-ssec.2) The person must give the person in charge of the animal at the time of the treatment, full and appropriate written advice about the treatment including any written instructions given by a veterinary surgeon or pharmacist. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
(sec.12P-ssec.3) If the person who receives the advice is not usually in charge of the animal, the person must give the advice to the person usually in charge of the animal when that person again becomes in charge of the animal. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —100 penalty units.
(sec.12P-ssec.4) This section does not apply to— a veterinary surgeon; or the person usually in charge of the animal; or an employee of the person usually in charge of the animal who uses the product in the course of the employment.
(a) a veterinary surgeon; or
(b) the person usually in charge of the animal; or
(c) an employee of the person usually in charge of the animal who uses the product in the course of the employment.
sec.12Q
Information to be included in written advice
sec.12Q Information to be included in written advice
The written advice mentioned in section 12P must include—
whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
the name of the product’s active constituent; and
the dosage; and
the frequency of the dosage; and
the treatment period; and
how the product was used to treat the animal; and
the species of animal treated; and
details to identify the particular animal; and
the date the product was used; and
the name and address of the person using the product; and
the name and address of the person usually in charge of the animal; and
any other information prescribed under a regulation.
Subsection (3) applies to—
a person mentioned in section 12P (1) ; and
a person usually in charge of an animal, who receives written advice under section 12P (2) or (3) .
Each person mentioned in subsection (2) must keep a copy of the advice for—
the period prescribed under a regulation; or
if no period is prescribed—2 years.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —100 penalty units.
s 12Q ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12Q-ssec.1) The written advice mentioned in section 12P must include— whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and the name of the product’s active constituent; and the dosage; and the frequency of the dosage; and the treatment period; and how the product was used to treat the animal; and the species of animal treated; and details to identify the particular animal; and the date the product was used; and the name and address of the person using the product; and the name and address of the person usually in charge of the animal; and any other information prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.12Q-ssec.2) Subsection (3) applies to— a person mentioned in section 12P (1) ; and a person usually in charge of an animal, who receives written advice under section 12P (2) or (3) .
(sec.12Q-ssec.3) Each person mentioned in subsection (2) must keep a copy of the advice for— the period prescribed under a regulation; or if no period is prescribed—2 years. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —100 penalty units.
(a) whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
(b) for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
(c) for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
(d) the name of the product’s active constituent; and
(e) the dosage; and
(f) the frequency of the dosage; and
(g) the treatment period; and
(h) how the product was used to treat the animal; and
(i) the species of animal treated; and
(j) details to identify the particular animal; and
(k) the date the product was used; and
(l) the name and address of the person using the product; and
(m) the name and address of the person usually in charge of the animal; and
(n) any other information prescribed under a regulation.
(a) a person mentioned in section 12P (1) ; and
(b) a person usually in charge of an animal, who receives written advice under section 12P (2) or (3) .
(a) the period prescribed under a regulation; or
(b) if no period is prescribed—2 years.
sec.12R
Records to be kept by veterinary surgeon
sec.12R Records to be kept by veterinary surgeon
This section applies to a veterinary surgeon who uses, or prescribes, supplies or recommends for use, to treat a trade species animal any of the following—
a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product;
a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ;
an unregistered veterinary chemical product;
a compounded veterinary chemical product.
The veterinary surgeon must keep a record of the treatment including—
whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
the name of the product’s active constituent; and
the dosage; and
the frequency of the dosage; and
the treatment period; and
how the product was used to treat the animal; and
the species of animal treated; and
details to identify the particular animal; and
the date the product was used or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and
the expiry date of the product; and
the name and address of the person using, prescribing, supplying or recommending the product; and
the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and
for a recommendation—the period the recommendation is to apply; and
other information prescribed under a regulation.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —200 penalty units.
The veterinary surgeon must keep a copy of the record for—
the period prescribed under a regulation; or
if no period is prescribed—2 years.
Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —200 penalty units.
s 12R ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2019 No. 26 s 290 sch 2
(sec.12R-ssec.1) This section applies to a veterinary surgeon who uses, or prescribes, supplies or recommends for use, to treat a trade species animal any of the following— a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product; a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ; an unregistered veterinary chemical product; a compounded veterinary chemical product.
(sec.12R-ssec.2) The veterinary surgeon must keep a record of the treatment including— whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and the name of the product’s active constituent; and the dosage; and the frequency of the dosage; and the treatment period; and how the product was used to treat the animal; and the species of animal treated; and details to identify the particular animal; and the date the product was used or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and the expiry date of the product; and the name and address of the person using, prescribing, supplying or recommending the product; and the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and for a recommendation—the period the recommendation is to apply; and other information prescribed under a regulation. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —200 penalty units.
(sec.12R-ssec.3) The veterinary surgeon must keep a copy of the record for— the period prescribed under a regulation; or if no period is prescribed—2 years. Maximum penalty for subsection (3) —200 penalty units.
(a) a registered veterinary chemical product to be used other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product;
(b) a veterinary chemical product that is an S4 medicine under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 ;
(c) an unregistered veterinary chemical product;
(d) a compounded veterinary chemical product.
(a) whether there is a withholding period for use of the product and the length of the period; and
(b) for a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product and, if the product has a distinguishing number, the number; and
(c) for a product other than a registered veterinary chemical product—particulars to identify the product; and
(d) the name of the product’s active constituent; and
(e) the dosage; and
(f) the frequency of the dosage; and
(g) the treatment period; and
(h) how the product was used to treat the animal; and
(i) the species of animal treated; and
(j) details to identify the particular animal; and
(k) the date the product was used or prescribed, supplied or recommended for use; and
(l) the expiry date of the product; and
(m) the name and address of the person using, prescribing, supplying or recommending the product; and
(n) the name and address of the person to whom the product is supplied; and
(o) for a recommendation—the period the recommendation is to apply; and
(p) other information prescribed under a regulation.
(a) the period prescribed under a regulation; or
(b) if no period is prescribed—2 years.
sec.12S
Meaning of withholding period
sec.12S Meaning of withholding period
The withholding period , for use of a chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product, is the minimum period that must elapse between the last use of the product and—
for a use in relation to a crop or pasture—the harvesting or cutting of, or the grazing of animals on, the crop or pasture; or
for a use in relation to an animal, including the feeding of an animal on feed treated with the product—the shearing or slaughtering of the animal, or the collection of milk or eggs from the animal for human consumption.
s 12S ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(a) for a use in relation to a crop or pasture—the harvesting or cutting of, or the grazing of animals on, the crop or pasture; or
(b) for a use in relation to an animal, including the feeding of an animal on feed treated with the product—the shearing or slaughtering of the animal, or the collection of milk or eggs from the animal for human consumption.
sec.12T
Identification of animals to which withholding period applies
sec.12T Identification of animals to which withholding period applies
This section applies to a person in charge of a trade species animal if—
a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product is used to treat the animal; and
a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the animal is identifiable as an animal mentioned in subsection (1) during—
the treatment period; and
the withholding period.
tagging
physical segregation
written records
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
s 12T ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12T-ssec.1) This section applies to a person in charge of a trade species animal if— a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product is used to treat the animal; and a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
(sec.12T-ssec.2) The person must take reasonable steps to ensure the animal is identifiable as an animal mentioned in subsection (1) during— the treatment period; and the withholding period. tagging physical segregation written records Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
(a) a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product is used to treat the animal; and
(b) a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
(a) the treatment period; and
(b) the withholding period.
1 tagging
2 physical segregation
3 written records
sec.12U
Notice of treatment on supply of trade species animal
sec.12U Notice of treatment on supply of trade species animal
This section applies to a person who supplies a trade species animal to another person if—
a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product was used to treat the animal; and
a withholding period applies to the use of the product and the period has not elapsed.
The person must give the other person written notice of the treatment including—
the withholding period for use of the product or the date the withholding period elapses; and
the name of—
the product used; or
if the product does not have a name—the product’s active constituent; and
details to identify the particular animal; and
the date of the treatment; and
other information prescribed under a regulation.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
Subsection (4) applies to—
a person mentioned in subsection (1) ; and
a person who receives written notice under subsection (2) .
Each person mentioned in subsection (3) must keep a copy of the notice for—
the period prescribed under a regulation; or
if no period is prescribed—2 years.
Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —100 penalty units.
s 12U ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
(sec.12U-ssec.1) This section applies to a person who supplies a trade species animal to another person if— a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product was used to treat the animal; and a withholding period applies to the use of the product and the period has not elapsed.
(sec.12U-ssec.2) The person must give the other person written notice of the treatment including— the withholding period for use of the product or the date the withholding period elapses; and the name of— the product used; or if the product does not have a name—the product’s active constituent; and details to identify the particular animal; and the date of the treatment; and other information prescribed under a regulation. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —300 penalty units.
(sec.12U-ssec.3) Subsection (4) applies to— a person mentioned in subsection (1) ; and a person who receives written notice under subsection (2) .
(sec.12U-ssec.4) Each person mentioned in subsection (3) must keep a copy of the notice for— the period prescribed under a regulation; or if no period is prescribed—2 years. Maximum penalty for subsection (4) —100 penalty units.
(a) a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product was used to treat the animal; and
(b) a withholding period applies to the use of the product and the period has not elapsed.
(a) the withholding period for use of the product or the date the withholding period elapses; and
(b) the name of— (i) the product used; or (ii) if the product does not have a name—the product’s active constituent; and
(i) the product used; or
(ii) if the product does not have a name—the product’s active constituent; and
(c) details to identify the particular animal; and
(d) the date of the treatment; and
(e) other information prescribed under a regulation.
(i) the product used; or
(ii) if the product does not have a name—the product’s active constituent; and
(a) a person mentioned in subsection (1) ; and
(b) a person who receives written notice under subsection (2) .
(a) the period prescribed under a regulation; or
(b) if no period is prescribed—2 years.
sec.12V
Observance of withholding period
sec.12V Observance of withholding period
This section applies to a person in charge of a trade species animal if—
a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product has been used to treat the animal; and
a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
The person must not, within the withholding period, allow the animal to be shorn or slaughtered or milk or eggs to be collected from the animal, for human consumption.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
s 12V ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2015 No. 15 s 65
(sec.12V-ssec.1) This section applies to a person in charge of a trade species animal if— a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product has been used to treat the animal; and a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
(sec.12V-ssec.2) The person must not, within the withholding period, allow the animal to be shorn or slaughtered or milk or eggs to be collected from the animal, for human consumption. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(a) a veterinary chemical product or compounded veterinary chemical product has been used to treat the animal; and
(b) a withholding period applies to the use of the product.
pt.2-div.3
Agricultural chemical products
Agricultural chemical products
sec.12W
Definitions for div 3
sec.12W Definitions for div 3
In this division—
agricultural ERA see the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , section 79 .
s 12W def agricultural ERA amd 2019 No. 28 s 39 sch 1
carrying out , an agricultural ERA, has the same meaning as carrying out an agricultural ERA under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 .
preparing , for a prescribed agricultural ERA product, means mixing the product or using it for testing.
prescribed agricultural ERA conditions , for a prescribed agricultural ERA product, means the conditions prescribed for using, preparing, storing or possessing the product under section 13C (1) (b) .
prescribed agricultural ERA product means an agricultural chemical product prescribed under section 13C (1) (a) .
s 12W ins 2009 No. 42 s 2B
sec.13
Use of registered agricultural chemical products in contravention of labels
sec.13 Use of registered agricultural chemical products in contravention of labels
A person must not use a registered agricultural chemical product other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product.
Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 13B .
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 13 ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2015 No. 15 s 66
(sec.13-ssec.1) A person must not use a registered agricultural chemical product other than in a way stated in the instructions on the approved label for containers for the product. Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.13-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the product is used in a way authorised by a permit or prescribed under a regulation.
(sec.13-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove the product was used in a way authorised under section 13B .
(sec.13-ssec.4) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
sec.13A
Use of unregistered agricultural chemical products
sec.13A Use of unregistered agricultural chemical products
A person must not use an agricultural chemical product unless it is a registered agricultural chemical product.
Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
Subsection (1) does not apply if—
the product is used in a way authorised by a permit; or
the product is prescribed for this subsection under a regulation.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove—
the product was a registered agricultural chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and
the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and
the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and
the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container; and
if the offence relates to the use of a prescribed agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA—the defendant’s use of the product complied with the prescribed agricultural ERA conditions for the product.
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 13A ins 2002 No. 76 s 26
amd 2009 No. 42 s 2C ; 2015 No. 15 s 67
(sec.13A-ssec.1) A person must not use an agricultural chemical product unless it is a registered agricultural chemical product. Maximum penalty for subsection (1) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.13A-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if— the product is used in a way authorised by a permit; or the product is prescribed for this subsection under a regulation.
(sec.13A-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove— the product was a registered agricultural chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container; and if the offence relates to the use of a prescribed agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA—the defendant’s use of the product complied with the prescribed agricultural ERA conditions for the product.
(sec.13A-ssec.4) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
(a) the product is used in a way authorised by a permit; or
(b) the product is prescribed for this subsection under a regulation.
(a) the product was a registered agricultural chemical product at some time in the 2 years immediately before its use by the defendant; and
(b) the product’s registration ended under section 47 (2) or (3) of the Agvet Code ; and
(c) the defendant’s use of the product did not contravene an instruction that appeared on the approved label for containers for the product immediately before the product’s registration ended; and
(d) the label was attached to the product’s container immediately before the product was taken from the container; and
(e) if the offence relates to the use of a prescribed agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA—the defendant’s use of the product complied with the prescribed agricultural ERA conditions for the product.
sec.13B
Compliance with instructions
sec.13B Compliance with instructions
A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product at a concentration less than the concentration stated, unless the instruction states the product must be used at a stated concentration or a concentration not less than the concentration stated.
A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product (whether or not diluted) at a rate lower than the rate stated, unless the instruction states the product must be used at a rate not lower than the rate stated.
A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product more than once for the same plant, with the period between a use and the next being longer than the period stated, unless the instruction states that the period must not be longer than the period stated.
A person does not contravene an instruction about using an agricultural chemical product to control a pest if the person uses the product to control another pest, unless the instruction states the product must not be used to control the other pest.
A person does not contravene an instruction about a method of using an agricultural chemical product if the method used by the person (the alternative method ) is different from the instruction, unless the instruction states the alternative method must not be used.
A person does not contravene an instruction by mixing an agricultural chemical product with another agricultural chemical product or a fertiliser or other substance, unless the instruction states the product must not be mixed with—
the other agricultural chemical product or the fertiliser or other substance; or
another agricultural chemical product or any fertiliser or other substance.
s 13B (prev s 8D) ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2001 No. 63 s 6 ; 2002 No. 76 s 21 (1) – (5)
renum and reloc 2002 No. 76 s 21 (6)
(sec.13B-ssec.1) A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product at a concentration less than the concentration stated, unless the instruction states the product must be used at a stated concentration or a concentration not less than the concentration stated.
(sec.13B-ssec.2) A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product (whether or not diluted) at a rate lower than the rate stated, unless the instruction states the product must be used at a rate not lower than the rate stated.
(sec.13B-ssec.3) A person does not contravene an instruction by using an agricultural chemical product more than once for the same plant, with the period between a use and the next being longer than the period stated, unless the instruction states that the period must not be longer than the period stated.
(sec.13B-ssec.4) A person does not contravene an instruction about using an agricultural chemical product to control a pest if the person uses the product to control another pest, unless the instruction states the product must not be used to control the other pest.
(sec.13B-ssec.5) A person does not contravene an instruction about a method of using an agricultural chemical product if the method used by the person (the alternative method ) is different from the instruction, unless the instruction states the alternative method must not be used.
(sec.13B-ssec.6) A person does not contravene an instruction by mixing an agricultural chemical product with another agricultural chemical product or a fertiliser or other substance, unless the instruction states the product must not be mixed with— the other agricultural chemical product or the fertiliser or other substance; or another agricultural chemical product or any fertiliser or other substance.
(a) the other agricultural chemical product or the fertiliser or other substance; or
(b) another agricultural chemical product or any fertiliser or other substance.
sec.13C
Prescribed agricultural ERA products and conditions
sec.13C Prescribed agricultural ERA products and conditions
A regulation may—
declare an agricultural chemical product to be a prescribed agricultural ERA product; and
prescribe conditions for using, preparing, storing and possessing the product for carrying out an agricultural ERA.
However, a regulation may be made under subsection (1) only if the Minister considers it is necessary or desirable to help achieve the purpose of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , chapter 4A .
To remove any doubt, it is declared that an agricultural chemical product may be declared as a prescribed agricultural ERA product under subsection (1) (a) and conditions may be prescribed for the product under subsection (1) (b) whether or not the product is a registered agricultural chemical product.
s 13C ins 2009 No. 42 s 2D
amd 2019 No. 28 s 39 sch 1
(sec.13C-ssec.1) A regulation may— declare an agricultural chemical product to be a prescribed agricultural ERA product; and prescribe conditions for using, preparing, storing and possessing the product for carrying out an agricultural ERA.
(sec.13C-ssec.2) However, a regulation may be made under subsection (1) only if the Minister considers it is necessary or desirable to help achieve the purpose of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , chapter 4A .
(sec.13C-ssec.3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that an agricultural chemical product may be declared as a prescribed agricultural ERA product under subsection (1) (a) and conditions may be prescribed for the product under subsection (1) (b) whether or not the product is a registered agricultural chemical product.
(a) declare an agricultural chemical product to be a prescribed agricultural ERA product; and
(b) prescribe conditions for using, preparing, storing and possessing the product for carrying out an agricultural ERA.
sec.13D
Compliance with prescribed agricultural ERA condition
sec.13D Compliance with prescribed agricultural ERA condition
A person uses, prepares, stores or possesses a prescribed agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA in compliance with a prescribed agricultural ERA condition for the product only if the use, preparation, storage or possession of the product complies with—
the condition; or
an agricultural ERA standard that applies to the agricultural ERA; or
if the person is accredited under a recognised accreditation program for the agricultural ERA—the recognised accreditation program.
In this section—
agricultural ERA standard see the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , section 81 (1) .
recognised accreditation program see the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , section 318YA .
s 13D ins 2009 No. 42 s 2D
amd 2019 No. 28 s 39 sch 1
(sec.13D-ssec.1) A person uses, prepares, stores or possesses a prescribed agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA in compliance with a prescribed agricultural ERA condition for the product only if the use, preparation, storage or possession of the product complies with— the condition; or an agricultural ERA standard that applies to the agricultural ERA; or if the person is accredited under a recognised accreditation program for the agricultural ERA—the recognised accreditation program.
(sec.13D-ssec.2) In this section— agricultural ERA standard see the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , section 81 (1) . recognised accreditation program see the Environmental Protection Act 1994 , section 318YA .
(a) the condition; or
(b) an agricultural ERA standard that applies to the agricultural ERA; or
(c) if the person is accredited under a recognised accreditation program for the agricultural ERA—the recognised accreditation program.
sec.13E
Use etc. of registered agricultural ERA products for agricultural ERAs
sec.13E Use etc. of registered agricultural ERA products for agricultural ERAs
A person must not use, prepare, store or possess a registered agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA other than in a way that complies with the prescribed agricultural ERA conditions for the product.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘ permit ’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
In this section—
registered agricultural ERA product means a registered agricultural chemical product that is a prescribed agricultural ERA product.
s 13E ins 2009 No. 42 s 2D
amd 2015 No. 15 s 68
(sec.13E-ssec.1) A person must not use, prepare, store or possess a registered agricultural ERA product for carrying out an agricultural ERA other than in a way that complies with the prescribed agricultural ERA conditions for the product. Maximum penalty—100 penalty units. This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
(sec.13E-ssec.2) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘ permit ’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
(sec.13E-ssec.3) In this section— registered agricultural ERA product means a registered agricultural chemical product that is a prescribed agricultural ERA product.
pt.2-div.4
Chemical residues
Chemical residues
sec.13F
Definition for division
sec.13F Definition for division
In this division—
relevant thing means any of the following—
agricultural produce;
manufactured stock food;
the tissue of a trade species animal;
a product derived from a trade species animal.
s 13F ins 2020 No. 3 s 68
(a) agricultural produce;
(b) manufactured stock food;
(c) the tissue of a trade species animal;
(d) a product derived from a trade species animal.
sec.14
Recall of chemicals etc.
sec.14 Recall of chemicals etc.
The chief executive may, where the chief executive is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so having regard to the harm that may be caused to any property, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country by the use of a chemical or prescribed substance, give notice in writing to the primary dealer of the chemical or manufacturer or producer of the prescribed substance directing him or her, within the time specified in the notice, to take the steps and do the acts and things specified in the notice to recall the chemical or prescribed substance from other persons having it in their possession.
A notice given under subsection (1) may direct the person to whom it is given to destroy, denature or otherwise deal with any of the chemical or prescribed substance in or coming into the possession of the person, within the time and in the manner specified in the notice.
A person must not contravene a notice under subsection (1) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for the contravention.
Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.
This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
In this section—
prescribed substance means—
any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser in or on which is the residue of a chemical; or
any substance in or on which is the residue of a chemical which substance is used in connection with any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser.
s 14 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch ; 2015 No. 15 s 69
(sec.14-ssec.1) The chief executive may, where the chief executive is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so having regard to the harm that may be caused to any property, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country by the use of a chemical or prescribed substance, give notice in writing to the primary dealer of the chemical or manufacturer or producer of the prescribed substance directing him or her, within the time specified in the notice, to take the steps and do the acts and things specified in the notice to recall the chemical or prescribed substance from other persons having it in their possession.
(sec.14-ssec.2) A notice given under subsection (1) may direct the person to whom it is given to destroy, denature or otherwise deal with any of the chemical or prescribed substance in or coming into the possession of the person, within the time and in the manner specified in the notice.
(sec.14-ssec.3) A person must not contravene a notice under subsection (1) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for the contravention. Maximum penalty—100 penalty units. This subsection is a deemed executive liability provision—see section 31 .
(sec.14-ssec.4) In this section— prescribed substance means— any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser in or on which is the residue of a chemical; or any substance in or on which is the residue of a chemical which substance is used in connection with any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser.
(a) any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser in or on which is the residue of a chemical; or
(b) any substance in or on which is the residue of a chemical which substance is used in connection with any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or fertiliser.
sec.15
Duty to report chemical residues in or on relevant thing
sec.15 Duty to report chemical residues in or on relevant thing
This section applies to a person if the person becomes aware that the residue of a chemical in or on a relevant thing is more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing.
a person conducting an analysis of a relevant thing
a veterinary surgeon who treats a trade species animal
a person who monitors the residue of chemicals on agricultural produce for a supermarket or grocery store
a farmer who receives a report of an analysis of agricultural produce from a laboratory based outside Queensland
As soon as practicable but within 24 hours after becoming aware, the person must—
advise the standards officer that the residue of a chemical in or on the relevant thing exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing; and
give the standards officer the required information for the relevant thing.
Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
However, the person is not required to comply with subsection (2) if the person becomes aware, before the person would otherwise be required to advise the standards officer under the subsection, that another person has advised the standards officer as required under subsection (2) .
A person would not be required to advise the standards officer that the residue of a chemical in or on a relevant thing exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing if a person who conducted an analysis of the thing had already advised the standards officer about it as soon as the results of the analysis were known.
A person complies with subsection (2) (b) if the person gives the standards officer a laboratory report about the residue of a chemical in or on a sample of the relevant thing that contains all of the required information for the relevant thing.
However, if the laboratory report does not contain all of the required information for the relevant thing, the person only complies with subsection (2) (b) if the person also gives the standards officer—
the required information that is not contained in the laboratory report for the relevant thing; and
sufficient information for the standards officer to identify the laboratory report to which the required information mentioned in paragraph (a) relates.
the sample number for the relevant thing the subject of the laboratory report
In this section—
distinguishing number , for a relevant thing, includes a number with 1 or more letters or symbols.
laboratory number , for a relevant thing, means the distinguishing number given to a sample of the thing by a laboratory that analysed the thing.
required information , for a relevant thing, means the following information about the thing—
a description of the relevant thing;
if the relevant thing has a sample number—the sample number;
if the relevant thing has a laboratory number—the laboratory number;
the name of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
the concentration of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
the maximum residue limit prescribed for the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
the name and address of the person who manufactured or produced the relevant thing;
if the information mentioned in paragraph (g) is not reasonably available—the name and address of the person from whom the relevant thing was obtained.
sample number , for a relevant thing, means a distinguishing number given to the sample of the thing by a person who made the sample of the thing.
s 15 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch; 2002 No. 76 s 17 sch 2
sub 2014 No. 7 s 518 ; 2020 No. 3 s 69
(sec.15-ssec.1) This section applies to a person if the person becomes aware that the residue of a chemical in or on a relevant thing is more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing. a person conducting an analysis of a relevant thing a veterinary surgeon who treats a trade species animal a person who monitors the residue of chemicals on agricultural produce for a supermarket or grocery store a farmer who receives a report of an analysis of agricultural produce from a laboratory based outside Queensland
(sec.15-ssec.2) As soon as practicable but within 24 hours after becoming aware, the person must— advise the standards officer that the residue of a chemical in or on the relevant thing exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing; and give the standards officer the required information for the relevant thing. Maximum penalty—40 penalty units.
(sec.15-ssec.3) However, the person is not required to comply with subsection (2) if the person becomes aware, before the person would otherwise be required to advise the standards officer under the subsection, that another person has advised the standards officer as required under subsection (2) . A person would not be required to advise the standards officer that the residue of a chemical in or on a relevant thing exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing if a person who conducted an analysis of the thing had already advised the standards officer about it as soon as the results of the analysis were known.
(sec.15-ssec.4) A person complies with subsection (2) (b) if the person gives the standards officer a laboratory report about the residue of a chemical in or on a sample of the relevant thing that contains all of the required information for the relevant thing.
(sec.15-ssec.5) However, if the laboratory report does not contain all of the required information for the relevant thing, the person only complies with subsection (2) (b) if the person also gives the standards officer— the required information that is not contained in the laboratory report for the relevant thing; and sufficient information for the standards officer to identify the laboratory report to which the required information mentioned in paragraph (a) relates. the sample number for the relevant thing the subject of the laboratory report
(sec.15-ssec.6) In this section— distinguishing number , for a relevant thing, includes a number with 1 or more letters or symbols. laboratory number , for a relevant thing, means the distinguishing number given to a sample of the thing by a laboratory that analysed the thing. required information , for a relevant thing, means the following information about the thing— a description of the relevant thing; if the relevant thing has a sample number—the sample number; if the relevant thing has a laboratory number—the laboratory number; the name of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing; the concentration of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing; the maximum residue limit prescribed for the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing; the name and address of the person who manufactured or produced the relevant thing; if the information mentioned in paragraph (g) is not reasonably available—the name and address of the person from whom the relevant thing was obtained. sample number , for a relevant thing, means a distinguishing number given to the sample of the thing by a person who made the sample of the thing.
• a person conducting an analysis of a relevant thing
• a veterinary surgeon who treats a trade species animal
• a person who monitors the residue of chemicals on agricultural produce for a supermarket or grocery store
• a farmer who receives a report of an analysis of agricultural produce from a laboratory based outside Queensland
(a) advise the standards officer that the residue of a chemical in or on the relevant thing exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for the thing; and
(b) give the standards officer the required information for the relevant thing.
(a) the required information that is not contained in the laboratory report for the relevant thing; and
(b) sufficient information for the standards officer to identify the laboratory report to which the required information mentioned in paragraph (a) relates. Example— the sample number for the relevant thing the subject of the laboratory report
(a) a description of the relevant thing;
(b) if the relevant thing has a sample number—the sample number;
(c) if the relevant thing has a laboratory number—the laboratory number;
(d) the name of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
(e) the concentration of the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
(f) the maximum residue limit prescribed for the residue of the chemical in or on the relevant thing;
(g) the name and address of the person who manufactured or produced the relevant thing;
(h) if the information mentioned in paragraph (g) is not reasonably available—the name and address of the person from whom the relevant thing was obtained.
sec.15A
Section sec.15A
s 15A ins 2014 No. 7 s 518
om 2020 No. 3 s 69
sec.16
Agricultural produce etc. containing chemical residues not to be used etc.
sec.16 Agricultural produce etc. containing chemical residues not to be used etc.
The standards officer or an inspector may, by notice in writing given to a prescribed person, direct that person not to use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with any prescribed substance to which the notice relates otherwise than as permitted (if at all) by the notice.
Subsection (2) applies if the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that the cultivation of a plant in or on land, or the grazing or keeping of a trade species animal on land, would be likely to result in the residue of a chemical being present in or on a relevant thing in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the relevant thing.
The standards officer or the inspector may, by notice in writing given to the owner or occupier of the land, direct the owner or occupier not to cultivate any plant or any class of plant in or on the land, or graze or keep a trade species animal on the land, other than as permitted under the notice.
A notice given by an inspector under subsection (1) or (2) shall have effect for the period specified therein but in no case exceeding 3 days.
Subject to subsection (5) , a notice given by the standards officer under subsection (1) or (2) may be given without limit to time.
A notice given by the standards officer under subsection (1) or (2) shall specify a time after which it ceases to have effect unless the standards officer has received a report of an analysis conducted by an analyst that confirms the standards officer’s suspicion or belief in respect of the matters to which the notice relates.
This subsection shall not be construed to prevent the standards officer from giving successive notices under subsection (1) or (2) .
A notice given under this section must be accompanied by an information notice for the decision to give the direction.
A person must not contravene a notice under subsection (1) or (2) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for the contravention.
Maximum penalty for subsection (6) —800 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
In this section—
prescribed person means a person having possession of any prescribed substance or, where the prescribed substance is in transit, the person into whose possession it is to be delivered.
prescribed substance means—
a relevant thing in or on which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the relevant thing; or
plants from which agricultural produce may be derived in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in an amount such that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount that exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or
a trade species animal in which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount that a product derived from the animal is likely to have in it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or
a substance in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in such an amount that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result, directly or indirectly, in the residue of a chemical being in or on agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product.
s 16 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch ; 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2009 No. 24 s 403 ; 2015 No. 15 s 70 ; 2014 No. 7 s 519 ; 2020 No. 3 s 70
(sec.16-ssec.1) The standards officer or an inspector may, by notice in writing given to a prescribed person, direct that person not to use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with any prescribed substance to which the notice relates otherwise than as permitted (if at all) by the notice.
(sec.16-ssec.1A) Subsection (2) applies if the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that the cultivation of a plant in or on land, or the grazing or keeping of a trade species animal on land, would be likely to result in the residue of a chemical being present in or on a relevant thing in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the relevant thing.
(sec.16-ssec.2) The standards officer or the inspector may, by notice in writing given to the owner or occupier of the land, direct the owner or occupier not to cultivate any plant or any class of plant in or on the land, or graze or keep a trade species animal on the land, other than as permitted under the notice.
(sec.16-ssec.3) A notice given by an inspector under subsection (1) or (2) shall have effect for the period specified therein but in no case exceeding 3 days.
(sec.16-ssec.4) Subject to subsection (5) , a notice given by the standards officer under subsection (1) or (2) may be given without limit to time.
(sec.16-ssec.5) A notice given by the standards officer under subsection (1) or (2) shall specify a time after which it ceases to have effect unless the standards officer has received a report of an analysis conducted by an analyst that confirms the standards officer’s suspicion or belief in respect of the matters to which the notice relates.
(sec.16-ssec.5A) This subsection shall not be construed to prevent the standards officer from giving successive notices under subsection (1) or (2) .
(sec.16-ssec.5B) A notice given under this section must be accompanied by an information notice for the decision to give the direction.
(sec.16-ssec.6) A person must not contravene a notice under subsection (1) or (2) , unless the person has a reasonable excuse for the contravention. Maximum penalty for subsection (6) —800 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.16-ssec.7) In this section— prescribed person means a person having possession of any prescribed substance or, where the prescribed substance is in transit, the person into whose possession it is to be delivered. prescribed substance means— a relevant thing in or on which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the relevant thing; or plants from which agricultural produce may be derived in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in an amount such that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount that exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or a trade species animal in which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount that a product derived from the animal is likely to have in it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or a substance in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in such an amount that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result, directly or indirectly, in the residue of a chemical being in or on agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product.
(a) a relevant thing in or on which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the relevant thing; or
(b) plants from which agricultural produce may be derived in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in an amount such that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount that exceeds the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or
(c) a trade species animal in which the standards officer or an inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds there is the residue of a chemical in an amount that a product derived from the animal is likely to have in it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or
(d) a substance in or on which the standards officer or inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that there is the residue of a chemical in such an amount that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result, directly or indirectly, in the residue of a chemical being in or on agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product.
sec.17
Approval to use etc. agricultural produce etc. or cultivate plants, or graze or keep trade species animals, on land
sec.17 Approval to use etc. agricultural produce etc. or cultivate plants, or graze or keep trade species animals, on land
Where a person wishes to—
use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with any prescribed substance; or
cultivate a plant, or graze or keep a trade species animal, on land;
within a time or in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 , the person may apply in writing to the standards officer for approval to use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with the prescribed substance or, as the case may be, cultivate the plant, or graze or keep the trade species animal, on the land, as specified in the application.
The standards officer may, whether pursuant to an application made under subsection (1) or otherwise, approve in writing—
the use, destruction or disposal of or other dealing with any prescribed substance; or
the cultivation of a plant, or the grazing or keeping of a trade species animal, on land;
within a time or in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 if the standards officer is satisfied that such use, destruction, disposal or other dealing or, as the case may be, cultivation, grazing or keeping—
is not a breach of any other Act or a law made under any other Act; and
will not cause harm, that in the circumstances is unreasonable, to any property, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country.
An approval given under this section may be given subject to such terms and conditions as are specified therein.
To the extent that a notice under section 16 is not consistent with an approval given under this section, that notice shall cease to be of force or effect.
If the standards officer refuses an application made under subsection (1) , the standards officer must, as soon as practicable after making the decision, give the person an information notice for the decision.
A person who uses, destroys or disposes of or otherwise deals with a prescribed substance or cultivates a plant, or grazes or keeps a trade species animal, on land contrary to an approval given under this section commits an offence.
Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —800 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
In this section—
prescribed substance means agricultural produce, manufactured stock food, a plant, a trade species animal, a product derived from a trade species animal, or other substance.
s 17 amd 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2009 No. 24 s 404 ; 2015 No. 15 s 71 ; 2014 No. 7 s 520
(sec.17-ssec.1) Where a person wishes to— use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with any prescribed substance; or cultivate a plant, or graze or keep a trade species animal, on land; within a time or in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 , the person may apply in writing to the standards officer for approval to use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with the prescribed substance or, as the case may be, cultivate the plant, or graze or keep the trade species animal, on the land, as specified in the application.
(sec.17-ssec.2) The standards officer may, whether pursuant to an application made under subsection (1) or otherwise, approve in writing— the use, destruction or disposal of or other dealing with any prescribed substance; or the cultivation of a plant, or the grazing or keeping of a trade species animal, on land; within a time or in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 if the standards officer is satisfied that such use, destruction, disposal or other dealing or, as the case may be, cultivation, grazing or keeping— is not a breach of any other Act or a law made under any other Act; and will not cause harm, that in the circumstances is unreasonable, to any property, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country.
(sec.17-ssec.3) An approval given under this section may be given subject to such terms and conditions as are specified therein.
(sec.17-ssec.4) To the extent that a notice under section 16 is not consistent with an approval given under this section, that notice shall cease to be of force or effect.
(sec.17-ssec.4A) If the standards officer refuses an application made under subsection (1) , the standards officer must, as soon as practicable after making the decision, give the person an information notice for the decision.
(sec.17-ssec.5) A person who uses, destroys or disposes of or otherwise deals with a prescribed substance or cultivates a plant, or grazes or keeps a trade species animal, on land contrary to an approval given under this section commits an offence. Maximum penalty for subsection (5) —800 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(sec.17-ssec.6) In this section— prescribed substance means agricultural produce, manufactured stock food, a plant, a trade species animal, a product derived from a trade species animal, or other substance.
(a) use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with any prescribed substance; or
(b) cultivate a plant, or graze or keep a trade species animal, on land;
(a) the use, destruction or disposal of or other dealing with any prescribed substance; or
(b) the cultivation of a plant, or the grazing or keeping of a trade species animal, on land;
(c) is not a breach of any other Act or a law made under any other Act; and
(d) will not cause harm, that in the circumstances is unreasonable, to any property, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country.
sec.18
Destruction of agricultural produce etc. at direction of chief executive
sec.18 Destruction of agricultural produce etc. at direction of chief executive
If the chief executive is notified by the standards officer that the residue of a chemical is in or on—
a portion or sample of any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product; or
a portion or sample of any plants from which agricultural produce may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or
a portion or sample of a trade species animal from which a product may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that the product is likely to have in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or
a portion or sample of any other substance and the chief executive forms the opinion that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result directly or indirectly in any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal having in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product;
the chief executive may by notice in writing given to any person in possession of the agricultural produce, manufactured stock food, plants, a product derived from a trade species animal, or other substance from which the portion or sample was taken, direct the person to cause it or them to be destroyed, or otherwise disposed of, in the manner and within the time specified in the notice.
A person to whom a notice is given under subsection (1) shall not use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with the substance to which the notice relates otherwise than as directed by the notice.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
s 18 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch ; 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2015 No. 15 s 72 ; 2014 No. 7 s 521
(sec.18-ssec.1) If the chief executive is notified by the standards officer that the residue of a chemical is in or on— a portion or sample of any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product; or a portion or sample of any plants from which agricultural produce may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or a portion or sample of a trade species animal from which a product may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that the product is likely to have in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or a portion or sample of any other substance and the chief executive forms the opinion that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result directly or indirectly in any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal having in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product; the chief executive may by notice in writing given to any person in possession of the agricultural produce, manufactured stock food, plants, a product derived from a trade species animal, or other substance from which the portion or sample was taken, direct the person to cause it or them to be destroyed, or otherwise disposed of, in the manner and within the time specified in the notice.
(sec.18-ssec.2) A person to whom a notice is given under subsection (1) shall not use, destroy, dispose of or otherwise deal with the substance to which the notice relates otherwise than as directed by the notice. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units. This subsection is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
(a) a portion or sample of any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product; or
(b) a portion or sample of any plants from which agricultural produce may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that agricultural produce derived from the plants is likely to have therein or thereon the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for that produce; or
(c) a portion or sample of a trade species animal from which a product may be derived and the chief executive forms the opinion that the product is likely to have in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the product; or
(d) a portion or sample of any other substance and the chief executive forms the opinion that the ordinary use of the substance is likely to result directly or indirectly in any agricultural produce, manufactured stock food or a product derived from a trade species animal having in or on it the residue of a chemical in an amount more than the maximum residue limit prescribed for the produce, stock food or product;
sec.19
Standards officer may cause notice under section 18 to be complied with
sec.19 Standards officer may cause notice under section 18 to be complied with
If a person to whom a notice is given under section 18 fails to comply with any direction contained therein within the time specified therein the standards officer may do or cause to be done anything required by the direction to be done.
The expenses incurred by the standards officer acting pursuant to subsection (1) shall be a debt due and owing to the standards officer by the person to whom the notice was given.
For the purpose of exercising his or her powers under subsection (1) the standards officer and any person authorised by the standards officer in that behalf may enter any place to which the direction relates together with such vehicles and equipment as the standards officer or other person considers necessary and there do that which is required by the direction to be done.
(sec.19-ssec.1) If a person to whom a notice is given under section 18 fails to comply with any direction contained therein within the time specified therein the standards officer may do or cause to be done anything required by the direction to be done.
(sec.19-ssec.2) The expenses incurred by the standards officer acting pursuant to subsection (1) shall be a debt due and owing to the standards officer by the person to whom the notice was given.
(sec.19-ssec.3) For the purpose of exercising his or her powers under subsection (1) the standards officer and any person authorised by the standards officer in that behalf may enter any place to which the direction relates together with such vehicles and equipment as the standards officer or other person considers necessary and there do that which is required by the direction to be done.
pt.3
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
sec.20
Powers of inspectors
sec.20 Powers of inspectors
An inspector may—
enter any place (using such force as is necessary) in, at or on which the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that—
any chemical is kept, stored, used, made, manufactured, mixed or prepared for use; or
there is or may be any equipment used or intended to be used in connection with the use of a chemical; or
any chemical has been, is being or will be used; or
any prescribed substance is kept, stored, used, made, cultivated, grazed, mixed or prepared for sale or sold; or
enter any place (using such force as is necessary) if the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that his or her entry may assist the inspector to ascertain the cause of any prescribed substance having the residue of a chemical in or on it; or
investigate and inquire into any matter for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not this Act is being complied with; or
search for, inspect and examine any chemical or prescribed substance or any equipment (including an aircraft) used in connection with the preparation, mixing, loading or use of any chemical; or
open or break open any package containing or which the inspector believes on reasonable grounds to contain any chemical or prescribed substance; or
select, take and remove for analysis any chemical or prescribed substance or portions or samples of any chemical or prescribed substance; or
seize and detain—
any prescribed substance that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds has been dealt with in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 or not in accordance with an approval given under section 17 ; or
any agricultural produce or manufactured stock food derived from a plant, or product derived from a trade species animal, to which a notice under section 16 or an approval under section 17 relates if the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds the plant or animal has been dealt with in a way that is contrary to a direction in the notice or not in compliance with the approval; or
any proscribed chemical in the possession of or being used by a person where the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that such possession or use constitutes an offence against this Act; or
any chemical or package that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or has been used, stored, disposed of or otherwise dealt with contrary to this Act; or
remove any chemical or prescribed substance seized by the inspector or allow all or part of the chemical or substance to remain at the place of seizure and, in that case, may fasten, secure, or seal and label, the chemical or substance or any package containing the chemical or substance or any door, gate or aperture affording access to the chemical, substance or package; or
weigh, count, measure, gauge, brand, label, mark or otherwise identify any chemical or prescribed substance; or
require a person to produce to the inspector any accounts, books, invoices, records or other documents relating to the sale, storage or use of any chemical or prescribed substance and may retain the same for the purpose of making a copy thereof or taking an extract therefrom and may make the copy or take the extract; or
require a person in possession of any chemical or prescribed substance to state the name and address (if known to the person) of or otherwise identify the person from whom he or she acquired the chemical or substance; or
in the exercise of the inspector’s powers photograph or make such audio or visual recordings as the inspector considers necessary or desirable; or
require a person found by the inspector committing an offence against this Act or who the inspector has reasonable grounds for believing has committed an offence against this Act or whose name and address are in the inspector’s opinion formed on reasonable grounds required for the purposes of this Act, to state the person’s full name and the address of his or her usual place of business or residence and, if the inspector suspects on reasonable grounds that a name or address so stated is false, may require the person to produce evidence of the correctness thereof; or
stop, detain and search any vehicle—
used or that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or is likely to be used to convey any chemical or prescribed substance or to apply any chemical; or
in, on or from which the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds any chemical or prescribed substance is sold or prepared for sale, packed, stored, handled, or supplied for sale or use; or
call to his or her aid a person who the inspector thinks is competent to assist him or her in the exercise of his or her powers and authorities or the discharge of his or her functions and duties and a person while aiding an inspector shall have the powers and authorities of an inspector; or
for the purpose of exercising the inspector’s powers, require the owner or occupier of any place entered by the inspector for the purposes of this Act to provide the inspector with all reasonable assistance; or
exercise such other powers or authorities and discharge such functions and duties as are prescribed.
A person shall comply with the requirement of an inspector made under subsection (1) .
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —100 penalty units.
In this section—
prescribed substance means any of the following—
agricultural produce;
manufactured stock food;
a trade species animal;
a product derived from a trade species animal;
fertiliser;
a plant;
a substance used in connection with a thing mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (f) .
s 20 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch ; 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2014 No. 7 s 523
(sec.20-ssec.1) An inspector may— enter any place (using such force as is necessary) in, at or on which the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that— any chemical is kept, stored, used, made, manufactured, mixed or prepared for use; or there is or may be any equipment used or intended to be used in connection with the use of a chemical; or any chemical has been, is being or will be used; or any prescribed substance is kept, stored, used, made, cultivated, grazed, mixed or prepared for sale or sold; or enter any place (using such force as is necessary) if the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that his or her entry may assist the inspector to ascertain the cause of any prescribed substance having the residue of a chemical in or on it; or investigate and inquire into any matter for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not this Act is being complied with; or search for, inspect and examine any chemical or prescribed substance or any equipment (including an aircraft) used in connection with the preparation, mixing, loading or use of any chemical; or open or break open any package containing or which the inspector believes on reasonable grounds to contain any chemical or prescribed substance; or select, take and remove for analysis any chemical or prescribed substance or portions or samples of any chemical or prescribed substance; or seize and detain— any prescribed substance that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds has been dealt with in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 or not in accordance with an approval given under section 17 ; or any agricultural produce or manufactured stock food derived from a plant, or product derived from a trade species animal, to which a notice under section 16 or an approval under section 17 relates if the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds the plant or animal has been dealt with in a way that is contrary to a direction in the notice or not in compliance with the approval; or any proscribed chemical in the possession of or being used by a person where the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that such possession or use constitutes an offence against this Act; or any chemical or package that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or has been used, stored, disposed of or otherwise dealt with contrary to this Act; or remove any chemical or prescribed substance seized by the inspector or allow all or part of the chemical or substance to remain at the place of seizure and, in that case, may fasten, secure, or seal and label, the chemical or substance or any package containing the chemical or substance or any door, gate or aperture affording access to the chemical, substance or package; or weigh, count, measure, gauge, brand, label, mark or otherwise identify any chemical or prescribed substance; or require a person to produce to the inspector any accounts, books, invoices, records or other documents relating to the sale, storage or use of any chemical or prescribed substance and may retain the same for the purpose of making a copy thereof or taking an extract therefrom and may make the copy or take the extract; or require a person in possession of any chemical or prescribed substance to state the name and address (if known to the person) of or otherwise identify the person from whom he or she acquired the chemical or substance; or in the exercise of the inspector’s powers photograph or make such audio or visual recordings as the inspector considers necessary or desirable; or require a person found by the inspector committing an offence against this Act or who the inspector has reasonable grounds for believing has committed an offence against this Act or whose name and address are in the inspector’s opinion formed on reasonable grounds required for the purposes of this Act, to state the person’s full name and the address of his or her usual place of business or residence and, if the inspector suspects on reasonable grounds that a name or address so stated is false, may require the person to produce evidence of the correctness thereof; or stop, detain and search any vehicle— used or that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or is likely to be used to convey any chemical or prescribed substance or to apply any chemical; or in, on or from which the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds any chemical or prescribed substance is sold or prepared for sale, packed, stored, handled, or supplied for sale or use; or call to his or her aid a person who the inspector thinks is competent to assist him or her in the exercise of his or her powers and authorities or the discharge of his or her functions and duties and a person while aiding an inspector shall have the powers and authorities of an inspector; or for the purpose of exercising the inspector’s powers, require the owner or occupier of any place entered by the inspector for the purposes of this Act to provide the inspector with all reasonable assistance; or exercise such other powers or authorities and discharge such functions and duties as are prescribed.
(sec.20-ssec.2) A person shall comply with the requirement of an inspector made under subsection (1) . Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —100 penalty units.
(sec.20-ssec.3) In this section— prescribed substance means any of the following— agricultural produce; manufactured stock food; a trade species animal; a product derived from a trade species animal; fertiliser; a plant; a substance used in connection with a thing mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (f) .
(a) enter any place (using such force as is necessary) in, at or on which the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that— (i) any chemical is kept, stored, used, made, manufactured, mixed or prepared for use; or (ii) there is or may be any equipment used or intended to be used in connection with the use of a chemical; or (iii) any chemical has been, is being or will be used; or (iv) any prescribed substance is kept, stored, used, made, cultivated, grazed, mixed or prepared for sale or sold; or
(i) any chemical is kept, stored, used, made, manufactured, mixed or prepared for use; or
(ii) there is or may be any equipment used or intended to be used in connection with the use of a chemical; or
(iii) any chemical has been, is being or will be used; or
(iv) any prescribed substance is kept, stored, used, made, cultivated, grazed, mixed or prepared for sale or sold; or
(b) enter any place (using such force as is necessary) if the inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting or believing that his or her entry may assist the inspector to ascertain the cause of any prescribed substance having the residue of a chemical in or on it; or
(c) investigate and inquire into any matter for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not this Act is being complied with; or
(d) search for, inspect and examine any chemical or prescribed substance or any equipment (including an aircraft) used in connection with the preparation, mixing, loading or use of any chemical; or
(e) open or break open any package containing or which the inspector believes on reasonable grounds to contain any chemical or prescribed substance; or
(f) select, take and remove for analysis any chemical or prescribed substance or portions or samples of any chemical or prescribed substance; or
(g) seize and detain— (i) any prescribed substance that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds has been dealt with in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 or not in accordance with an approval given under section 17 ; or (ii) any agricultural produce or manufactured stock food derived from a plant, or product derived from a trade species animal, to which a notice under section 16 or an approval under section 17 relates if the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds the plant or animal has been dealt with in a way that is contrary to a direction in the notice or not in compliance with the approval; or (iii) any proscribed chemical in the possession of or being used by a person where the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that such possession or use constitutes an offence against this Act; or (iv) any chemical or package that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or has been used, stored, disposed of or otherwise dealt with contrary to this Act; or
(i) any prescribed substance that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds has been dealt with in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 or not in accordance with an approval given under section 17 ; or
(ii) any agricultural produce or manufactured stock food derived from a plant, or product derived from a trade species animal, to which a notice under section 16 or an approval under section 17 relates if the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds the plant or animal has been dealt with in a way that is contrary to a direction in the notice or not in compliance with the approval; or
(iii) any proscribed chemical in the possession of or being used by a person where the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that such possession or use constitutes an offence against this Act; or
(iv) any chemical or package that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or has been used, stored, disposed of or otherwise dealt with contrary to this Act; or
(h) remove any chemical or prescribed substance seized by the inspector or allow all or part of the chemical or substance to remain at the place of seizure and, in that case, may fasten, secure, or seal and label, the chemical or substance or any package containing the chemical or substance or any door, gate or aperture affording access to the chemical, substance or package; or
(i) weigh, count, measure, gauge, brand, label, mark or otherwise identify any chemical or prescribed substance; or
(j) require a person to produce to the inspector any accounts, books, invoices, records or other documents relating to the sale, storage or use of any chemical or prescribed substance and may retain the same for the purpose of making a copy thereof or taking an extract therefrom and may make the copy or take the extract; or
(k) require a person in possession of any chemical or prescribed substance to state the name and address (if known to the person) of or otherwise identify the person from whom he or she acquired the chemical or substance; or
(l) in the exercise of the inspector’s powers photograph or make such audio or visual recordings as the inspector considers necessary or desirable; or
(m) require a person found by the inspector committing an offence against this Act or who the inspector has reasonable grounds for believing has committed an offence against this Act or whose name and address are in the inspector’s opinion formed on reasonable grounds required for the purposes of this Act, to state the person’s full name and the address of his or her usual place of business or residence and, if the inspector suspects on reasonable grounds that a name or address so stated is false, may require the person to produce evidence of the correctness thereof; or
(n) stop, detain and search any vehicle— (i) used or that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or is likely to be used to convey any chemical or prescribed substance or to apply any chemical; or (ii) in, on or from which the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds any chemical or prescribed substance is sold or prepared for sale, packed, stored, handled, or supplied for sale or use; or
(i) used or that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or is likely to be used to convey any chemical or prescribed substance or to apply any chemical; or
(ii) in, on or from which the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds any chemical or prescribed substance is sold or prepared for sale, packed, stored, handled, or supplied for sale or use; or
(o) call to his or her aid a person who the inspector thinks is competent to assist him or her in the exercise of his or her powers and authorities or the discharge of his or her functions and duties and a person while aiding an inspector shall have the powers and authorities of an inspector; or
(p) for the purpose of exercising the inspector’s powers, require the owner or occupier of any place entered by the inspector for the purposes of this Act to provide the inspector with all reasonable assistance; or
(q) exercise such other powers or authorities and discharge such functions and duties as are prescribed.
(i) any chemical is kept, stored, used, made, manufactured, mixed or prepared for use; or
(ii) there is or may be any equipment used or intended to be used in connection with the use of a chemical; or
(iii) any chemical has been, is being or will be used; or
(iv) any prescribed substance is kept, stored, used, made, cultivated, grazed, mixed or prepared for sale or sold; or
(i) any prescribed substance that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds has been dealt with in a manner that is contrary to a direction contained in a notice under section 16 or not in accordance with an approval given under section 17 ; or
(ii) any agricultural produce or manufactured stock food derived from a plant, or product derived from a trade species animal, to which a notice under section 16 or an approval under section 17 relates if the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds the plant or animal has been dealt with in a way that is contrary to a direction in the notice or not in compliance with the approval; or
(iii) any proscribed chemical in the possession of or being used by a person where the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds that such possession or use constitutes an offence against this Act; or
(iv) any chemical or package that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or has been used, stored, disposed of or otherwise dealt with contrary to this Act; or
(i) used or that the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds is being or is likely to be used to convey any chemical or prescribed substance or to apply any chemical; or
(ii) in, on or from which the inspector suspects or believes on reasonable grounds any chemical or prescribed substance is sold or prepared for sale, packed, stored, handled, or supplied for sale or use; or
(a) agricultural produce;
(b) manufactured stock food;
(c) a trade species animal;
(d) a product derived from a trade species animal;
(e) fertiliser;
(f) a plant;
(g) a substance used in connection with a thing mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (f) .
sec.20A
Use of body-worn cameras
sec.20A Use of body-worn cameras
It is lawful for an inspector to use a body-worn camera to record images or sounds while the inspector is exercising a power under this Act.
Use of a body-worn camera by an inspector under subsection (1) includes use that is—
inadvertent or unexpected; or
incidental to use while exercising the inspector’s power.
Subsection (1) does not affect an ability the inspector has at common law or under another Act to record images or sounds.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that subsection (1) is a provision authorising the use by an inspector of a listening device, for the purposes of the Invasion of Privacy Act 1971 , section 43 (2) (d) .
In this section—
body-worn camera means a device—
worn on clothing or otherwise secured on a person; and
designed to be used to—
record images; or
record images and sounds.
s 20A ins 2020 No. 3 s 71
(sec.20A-ssec.1) It is lawful for an inspector to use a body-worn camera to record images or sounds while the inspector is exercising a power under this Act.
(sec.20A-ssec.2) Use of a body-worn camera by an inspector under subsection (1) includes use that is— inadvertent or unexpected; or incidental to use while exercising the inspector’s power.
(sec.20A-ssec.3) Subsection (1) does not affect an ability the inspector has at common law or under another Act to record images or sounds.
(sec.20A-ssec.4) To remove any doubt, it is declared that subsection (1) is a provision authorising the use by an inspector of a listening device, for the purposes of the Invasion of Privacy Act 1971 , section 43 (2) (d) .
(sec.20A-ssec.5) In this section— body-worn camera means a device— worn on clothing or otherwise secured on a person; and designed to be used to— record images; or record images and sounds.
(a) inadvertent or unexpected; or
(b) incidental to use while exercising the inspector’s power.
(a) worn on clothing or otherwise secured on a person; and
(b) designed to be used to— (i) record images; or (ii) record images and sounds.
(i) record images; or
(ii) record images and sounds.
(i) record images; or
(ii) record images and sounds.
sec.21
Warrants
sec.21 Warrants
Before an inspector enters a part of any premises or other place which part is used exclusively as a dwelling house the inspector shall, save where the inspector has the permission of the occupier of that part to this entry, obtain from a Stipendiary Magistrate a warrant to enter.
A Stipendiary Magistrate who is satisfied upon the complaint of an inspector that there is reasonable cause to suspect—
that in any premises or other place an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or
that there is in any premises or other place any thing in respect of which an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or
that there is in any premises or other place anything that will afford evidence of the commission of an offence against this Act;
may issue his or her warrant directed to an inspector to enter the premises or other place named in the warrant for the purpose of exercising therein the powers and authorities conferred upon an inspector by or under this Act.
A warrant shall be, for the period of 1 month from the date of its issue, sufficient authority for the inspector and all persons acting in aid of the inspector—
to enter the premises or other place specified in the warrant; and
to exercise therein the powers and authorities conferred upon an inspector by or under this Act.
For the purposes of this section, premises that are used as a dwelling house do not include the curtilage of those premises.
(sec.21-ssec.1) Before an inspector enters a part of any premises or other place which part is used exclusively as a dwelling house the inspector shall, save where the inspector has the permission of the occupier of that part to this entry, obtain from a Stipendiary Magistrate a warrant to enter.
(sec.21-ssec.2) A Stipendiary Magistrate who is satisfied upon the complaint of an inspector that there is reasonable cause to suspect— that in any premises or other place an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or that there is in any premises or other place any thing in respect of which an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or that there is in any premises or other place anything that will afford evidence of the commission of an offence against this Act; may issue his or her warrant directed to an inspector to enter the premises or other place named in the warrant for the purpose of exercising therein the powers and authorities conferred upon an inspector by or under this Act.
(sec.21-ssec.3) A warrant shall be, for the period of 1 month from the date of its issue, sufficient authority for the inspector and all persons acting in aid of the inspector— to enter the premises or other place specified in the warrant; and to exercise therein the powers and authorities conferred upon an inspector by or under this Act.
(sec.21-ssec.4) For the purposes of this section, premises that are used as a dwelling house do not include the curtilage of those premises.
(a) that in any premises or other place an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or
(b) that there is in any premises or other place any thing in respect of which an offence against this Act has been, is being or is likely to be committed; or
(c) that there is in any premises or other place anything that will afford evidence of the commission of an offence against this Act;
(a) to enter the premises or other place specified in the warrant; and
(b) to exercise therein the powers and authorities conferred upon an inspector by or under this Act.
More sections below
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Act 1988 .
s 1 amd 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1
sec.2 Commencement
sec.2 Commencement
This section and section 1 shall commence on the day on which this Act is assented to for and on behalf of Her Majesty.
Except as provided by subsection (1) , this Act or the provisions thereof specified in the proclamation shall commence on the day or days appointed by proclamation for the commencement of this Act or, as the case may be, those provisions.
(sec.2-ssec.1) This section and section 1 shall commence on the day on which this Act is assented to for and on behalf of Her Majesty.
(sec.2-ssec.2) Except as provided by subsection (1) , this Act or the provisions thereof specified in the proclamation shall commence on the day or days appointed by proclamation for the commencement of this Act or, as the case may be, those provisions.
Section sec.3
s 3 om 15 March 1995 RA s 36
sec.4 Definitions
sec.4 Definitions
The dictionary in the schedule defines particular words used in this Act.
s 4 amd 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
Note—prev s 4 contained definitions for this Act. Definitions are now located in schedule (Dictionary). Annotations for definitions contained in prev s 4 are located in annotations for schedule.
amd 2001 No. 63 s 4
sec.4A Words and expressions used in Agvet Code and this Act
sec.4A Words and expressions used in Agvet Code and this Act
Words and expressions used in the Agvet Code and this Act have the same meanings in this Act as they have in the Agvet Code .
Words and expressions mentioned in subsection (1) that are expressly defined in section 3 of the Agvet Code are also signposted in the dictionary.
s 4A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2002 No. 76 s 18
(sec.4A-ssec.1) Words and expressions used in the Agvet Code and this Act have the same meanings in this Act as they have in the Agvet Code .
(sec.4A-ssec.2) Words and expressions mentioned in subsection (1) that are expressly defined in section 3 of the Agvet Code are also signposted in the dictionary.
sec.4B Appointment of standards officers
sec.4B Appointment of standards officers
A standards officer and deputy standards officers may be employed under the Public Sector Act 2022 .
s 4B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 1996 No. 37 s 147 sch 2 ; 2009 No. 25 s 83 sch ; 2022 No. 34 s 365 sch 3
Provides administrative enforcement tools. Standards officers can direct recalls and destruction (s 14). The chief executive can direct destruction and disposal where evidence indicates residue breaches (s 18), and standards officers may themselves cause compliance and recover costs as debts (s 19).
Grants inspectors broad investigatory and enforcement powers. Inspectors may enter places, use reasonable force, seize and detain items, sample and take records, stop and search vehicles, and require production of documents (s 20). Use of body-worn cameras by inspectors is expressly authorised (s 20A) and warrants are required for entry to dwelling parts (s 21).
Establishes accountability for corporations and officers. Executive liability and deemed-executive liability regimes apply to specified provisions (ss 30A, 31). The Act prescribes penalties in penalty units for breaches throughout.
Sets procedural and evidentiary scaffolding. Appeals and reviews are available to QCAT and courts for certain decisions (ss 21A, 22-22E, 32C). Reports of analyses and certificates from the standards officer are explicitly admissible as evidence (ss 27, 34). Confidentiality and information-sharing rules are included (ss 35-36). Regulation-making powers remain with Governor in Council to fill details such as residue limits, sampling, records, fees and offences (s 38).
The Act therefore couples prescriptive prohibitions (use only as labelled, reporting duties, record-keeping) with broad executive powers to restrict, seize and compel compliance where chemical residues or other risks to public health, property, environment or trade are suspected (for example ss 14-19). The statutory text frequently cross-refers to permits, the Agvet Code and the Environmental Protection Act 1994 where definitions or delegations are required (for example s 4A; ss 12W, 13C).
Main concepts
The Act’s operation turns on a set of defined roles, product statuses and procedural constructs. These concepts determine who decides, who pays and what action the law triggers.
Standards officer and deputies. The standards officer is given functions and powers under this Act and other Acts (s 4C). The role can delegate and is central to recalls, approvals, notices and evidentiary certificates (for example ss 14, 16, 17, 27, 34). Standards officers and their deputies may be employed under the Public Sector Act 2022 (s 4B).
Inspectors and analysts. The chief executive appoints inspectors and analysts (s 5). Inspectors have wide entry, seizure, sampling and compulsion powers (s 20). Their powers can be limited by regulation, appointment conditions or written notice (s 5A). Identity cards and production/display rules constrain exercise of powers in relation to individuals (ss 5B-5C).
Registered, unregistered and controlled chemicals. The Act distinguishes registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products from unregistered chemicals and allows regulations to declare unregistered chemicals as controlled chemicals subject to conditions (ss 7, 8). The Act also permits the Governor in Council to proscribe chemicals on public interest grounds (s 11C).
Proscribed and prescribed substances. Proscribed chemicals are those for which possession or use is prohibited except under Ministerial permit (s 9). The Act also uses “prescribed substance” to describe items that may attract an inspector notice or recall (s 14, s 16).
Relevant thing and maximum residue limit. The “relevant thing” concept (s 13F) captures agricultural produce, manufactured stock food, tissues of trade species animals and products derived from trade species animals. Maximum residue limits may be prescribed and may be set at zero (s 6); these limits trigger reporting duties, notices and destruction powers (ss 15-19).
Veterinary regime and compounding. Separate regimes cover veterinary chemical products, unregistered products, compounded products and the roles of veterinary surgeons and pharmacists. The Act creates narrow allowances for off‑label use by veterinary surgeons, supply within practice, and compounding under tightly defined circumstances (ss 12-12L).
Withholding period. Defined as the minimum interval between last use and harvesting, slaughter, shearing or collection of milk/eggs for human consumption (s 12S). Withholding periods impose labelling and record obligations as well as restrictions on slaughter, shearing and supply until expiry (ss 12T-12V).
Executive and deemed executive liability. Certain offences are designated as executive liability provisions where an executive officer of a corporation may commit an offence if they fail to take all reasonable steps to prevent the corporate offence (s 30A). A subset of offences are “deemed executive liability” provisions where executive officers are treated as having committed the offence if they authorised or were knowingly concerned in the conduct (s 31). The Act lists the provisions that fall within each category (ss 30A, 31).
Information sharing and confidentiality. The chief executive may enter into information-sharing arrangements with prescribed government entities for functions under this Act (s 36). Separately, persons administering the Act are forbidden from disclosing confidential information except for specified purposes (s 35).
Permits, Agvet Code and external regulatory integration. The Act routinely references permits and the Agvet Code for definitions and eligibility (s 4A; see ss 7, 12, 13, 13E). It also refers to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 for agricultural ERA concepts (s 12W, s 13C).
Each concept is a decision node: whether a product is “registered”, whether a residue exceeds an MRL, whether the standards officer forms a view that public interest requires proscription, and whether an executive officer took reasonable steps. Those nodes determine travel through notice, compliance, seizure, record and appeal pathways set out across Parts 2 and 3.
Who it affects
The Act allocates duties and powers across both public officials and a wide range of private actors. Concretely, the statutory audience comprises the following groups and the statutory consequences that flow to each.
Veterinary surgeons. The Act imposes direct obligations and prohibitions on veterinary surgeons, with specific criminal penalties for using, prescribing, supplying or recommending registered or unregistered veterinary chemical products other than as instructed on the approved label except where permitted (ss 12, 12E). Veterinary surgeons also have bespoke authorities to use or prescribe off‑label in narrowly defined circumstances (ss 12A-12C, 12F-12J). They must give written instructions when they supply or prescribe non-standard products and keep records (ss 12M-12R). Failure can attract penalties (see ss 12M(2), 12R).
Farmers and persons in charge of animals. Persons in charge of trade species animals must comply with identification, segregation and withholding period obligations (ss 12S-12V). They must not allow shearing, slaughter or collection of milk/eggs during a withholding period (s 12V). Suppliers of trade species animals must give written notice of treatment and withholding periods on transfer (s 12U).
Pharmacists. Pharmacists are restricted in supplying compounded veterinary chemical products except in quantities for a single course of treatment authorised under s 12K, and they have obligations to supply written information that must be retained (ss 12K, 12M).
Primary dealers, manufacturers and distributors. Primary dealers and manufacturers are the recipients of recall notices and can be directed to recall, destroy or otherwise deal with products (s 14). They can be liable for non-compliance and may also be subject to seizure or forfeiture when inspectors act (ss 14, 20, 32A-32B).
Laboratories, analysts and persons conducting testing. Persons who become aware that residues exceed prescribed maximum residue limits (for example as a laboratory report) must notify the standards officer “as soon as practicable but within 24 hours” and provide required information (s 15). Analysts’ reports and certificates are given evidentiary weight in prosecutions (s 27).
Businesses using agricultural chemicals. End users of agricultural chemical products must use registered products and follow label instructions unless a permit or regulation allows otherwise (ss 13, 13A). Prescribed agricultural ERA products carry additional conditions around preparation, storage and use for agricultural ERAs and compliance alternatives include accredited recognised programs or agricultural ERA standards (ss 12W, 13C-13E).
Corporations and executive officers. Corporations can be liable for corporate offences; executive officers face a specific liability regime requiring they “take all reasonable steps” to prevent corporate contraventions for designated executive-liability provisions (s 30A). For certain deemed executive liability offences, an executive officer may be treated as having committed the offence if they authorised or were knowingly concerned in the conduct (s 31).
Owners and occupiers of land and persons in possession of prescribed substances. Standards officers and inspectors may issue notices preventing cultivation, grazing or dealing with prescribed substances and landowners may be directed not to carry out certain activities (s 16). Owners and occupiers who contravene notices face penalties and possible seizure or destruction directions (ss 16, 17, 18).
Inspectors and standards officers. The Act defines powers, duties and limits for inspectors (s 20) and standards officers (ss 4C-4D). Inspectors are authorised to use body-worn cameras (s 20A) and required to produce identity cards when exercising powers (ss 5B-5C).
Government agencies and prescribed government entities. The chief executive may enter information-sharing arrangements with other government entities for the purposes of administering functions under the Act (s 36). This allows cross-agency enforcement and data exchange within statutory limits.
Each group bears specific compliance duties, retention obligations and potential criminal or administrative penalties if they fail to meet the statutory tests. The Act places most decision-making power with the standards officer and the chief executive for administrative interventions, and with inspectors for on-the-ground enforcement (for example ss 16, 18, 19, 20). Appeals and review paths (ss 21A, 22-22E, 32C) provide judicial and tribunal oversight for particular administrative decisions.
Key duties and rights
The Act ties substantive duties to labelling, registration, reporting, record-keeping and compliance with notices, while creating rights to review, approvals and evidentiary relief. The principal duties and corresponding rights are set out below with the controlling sections.
Duties to use and not to use
Use products only as stated on approved labels. Registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products must be used in the way stated on their approved labels unless a permit or regulation allows otherwise (ss 7, 12, 13). The Act provides limited statutory defences and authorised exceptions, for example where a veterinary surgeon uses a product under the narrow authorities in ss 12A-12D or where a permit is in force.
Do not make claims about unregistered chemicals. The Act prohibits claims about unregistered chemicals unless authorised by permit or falling within scientific exceptions (s 11A).
Information, instruction and record-keeping duties
Veterinary surgeons and pharmacists must give full, written and appropriate instructions to the person in charge of an animal when using, prescribing or supplying certain veterinary products and keep records (ss 12M-12R). Written instructions must include detailed content such as withholding period, product identification, dosage, species and dates (s 12N). For trade species animals, recipients must retain instructions for the regulatory retention period or 2 years by default (ss 12O, 12Q, 12R).
Duty to report residues. Persons who become aware that a residue exceeds the prescribed maximum residue limit must advise the standards officer as soon as practicable, but within 24 hours, and supply required information or a laboratory report (s 15). The duty lists the required information items (s 15(6)).
Responding to administrative directions
Obey notices restricting use, destruction, disposal or other dealing. The standards officer or an inspector may direct prescribed persons not to use, dispose of or otherwise deal with a prescribed substance and may direct landowners not to cultivate or graze (s 16). A chief executive may direct destruction or disposal when notified by the standards officer (s 18). Persons must not contravene these notices absent a reasonable excuse and face penalties for breach (ss 16(6), 18(2)).
Rights to apply for approval. A person affected by a notice may apply in writing to the standards officer for approval to act contrary to the notice; the standards officer may grant approval with terms if satisfied the action will not unreasonably cause harm or breach other law (s 17).
Inspector and standards officer powers and duties
Entry, search, seizure, sampling and compulsion. Inspectors may use force if reasonably necessary, seize, fasten and label items, take samples, require production of records and requisition identity of persons (s 20). Inspectors must produce identity cards before exercising powers (ss 5B-5C).
Recall and destruction. The chief executive may direct recalls and destroy or denature chemicals or prescribed substances; the standards officer may enforce compliance and recover costs as a debt (ss 14, 19).
Procedural rights
Review and appeal. A person dissatisfied with certain decisions may seek review: QCAT review of specified decisions under s 21A; appeals to the Magistrates Court or District Court on points of law for seizure and forfeiture decisions (ss 22-22E, 32C). The Act sets out timeframes, rehearing standards and stay power (s 22A-22D).
Evidentiary presumptions and use of analyst reports. Analyst reports and standards officer certificates are admissible evidence in proceedings unless the defendant or complainant requires the analyst to be called (s 27). Certificates by the standards officer on registration, label approval and permit status are express evidentiary instruments (s 34).
Corporate and officer duties
Executive officer obligations. Executive officers may commit offences where the corporation breaches specified executive liability provisions and the officer did not take all reasonable steps to prevent the conduct (s 30A). For certain deemed executive liability provisions, officers are treated as having committed the offence if they authorised or were knowingly concerned in the conduct (s 31).
Confidentiality and information-sharing
Confidentiality duty. Persons administering the Act who obtain confidential information must not use or disclose it except in performance of the Act, with consent or as required by law; breaches attract penalties (s 35).
Information-sharing authorisation. The chief executive may enter arrangements to share information with prescribed government entities for performance of functions under this Act or other laws (s 36).
These duties and rights create a compliance environment where: label conformity, record-keeping and timely reporting are affirmative duties; the standards officer and chief executive have administrative stop, destroy and recall powers; inspectors have field enforcement reach; and corporate officers must show proactive governance to rely on statutory defences. Appeal and evidentiary routes are provided but are scoped to specific decisions and subject to statutory time limits (for example s 22A).
Penalties and enforcement
The Act sets out a mixture of criminal penalties in penalty units, administrative enforcement tools and civil‑style recovery mechanisms. Enforcement proceeds through inspectors and standards officers acting under delegated statutory powers, with judicial review and appeal rights in defined circumstances.
Monetary penalties and their statutory maxima
Use of registered products taken from unlabelled containers: maximum 300 penalty units (s 7).
Use of controlled chemicals in breach of conditions: 600 penalty units (s 8(2)).
Possession or use of proscribed chemical without Ministerial permit: 800 penalty units (s 9).
Disposal of package or chemical in an improper manner: contained in s 10 (no penalty figure in excerpt but see regulation power s 38).
Veterinary offences: veterinary surgeons and other persons face maxima of 600 penalty units for various contraventions involving registered and unregistered veterinary chemical products (ss 12, 12E, 12I).
Use or supply of agricultural chemical products contrary to label or registration: 600 penalty units (ss 13, 13A).
Recall non-compliance: 100 penalty units and treated as a deemed executive liability provision (s 14).
Duty to report residues: 40 penalty units (s 15).
Failure to comply with a standards officer or inspector notice under s 16: 800 penalty units (s 16(6)), an executive liability provision.
Non‑observance of withholding period by a person in charge of a trade species animal: 600 penalty units and executive liability (s 12V(2)).
Obstruction of inspector: maximum 500 penalty units (s 25).
Tampering with seals, samples, etc.: maximum 100 penalty units (s 26).
Failure to produce records to an inspector: 50 penalty units (s 24(2)).
Record-keeping breaches: various maxima (for example s 12O and s 12Q refer to 100 penalty units; s 12R record-keeping 200 penalty units).
Enforcement mechanisms and non-monetary tools
Entry, search and seizure. Inspectors may enter places using necessary force, break open packages, select and remove samples, seize prescribed substances and secure property (s 20). Warrants are required for entry into dwelling parts absent consent (s 21).
Sampling, analysis and evidentiary use. Seized or sampled materials can be analysed; analyst reports are admissible evidence in proceedings unless the party requires the analyst to testify (s 27). Certificates by the standards officer are also evidence (s 34).
Notices, approvals and recalls. Standards officers and inspectors may issue notices prohibiting use or directing destruction, and the chief executive may direct destruction (ss 14, 16, 18). The standards officer may enforce notices by doing the required acts and recover expenses as a debt from the non-complying person (s 19).
Forfeiture, return and disposal. Seized things must be returned where not needed for evidence and lawful possession exists, unless reasonable grounds to retain exist; otherwise things can be forfeited to the State after inquiries and appeals processes, and the chief executive may deal with forfeited things (ss 32, 32A-32B).
Executive officer liability. The statutory regimes in ss 30A and 31 expose executive officers to penalties where corporations contravene certain provisions. s 30A frames a “reasonable steps” defence that considers knowledge and ability to influence, while s 31 applies where the officer authorised or was knowingly concerned.
Recovery of costs and civil-style debt. Expenses incurred by the standards officer in carrying out a destruction direction are a debt due from the person (s 19(2)). Courts may order convicted offenders to pay analysis fees and related expenses as part of costs (s 29).
Procedural constraints and review
Time limits for prosecutions: proceedings must start within one year of the offence or, if the offence comes to the complainant’s knowledge later, within one year of that knowledge but in any event within two years of the offence (s 28(2)).
Appeal and review processes: decisions under s 16 and inspector refusals under s 17 may be reviewed by QCAT (s 21A). Seizure decisions and forfeiture decisions carry appeal routes to Magistrates Court and options for rehearing, stays and appeal to the District Court on questions of law (ss 22-22E, 32C). The Act prescribes rehearing standards, stay powers and powers of substitution and direction by the court (ss 22B-22D).
Operational enforcement features that affect compliance costs
Inspectors may secure sites, seal and label, and remove samples or entire stock (s 20). That operational capacity increases immediate compliance costs for affected businesses where inspectors act.
The standards officer can act in the place of owners and recover the expense as a debt (s 19), shifting short-term cash flow risk to private actors.
The Act permits information-sharing with other government entities (s 36), which may concentrate enforcement and surveillance resources against non-compliance.
In short, the Act combines criminal penalties with administrative interventions, civil debt recovery and corporate governance obligations to create a layered enforcement regime. Specific penalty unit values are given in the sections above but conversion to monetary amounts requires reference to the current penalty unit value under applicable fiscal instruments, which the Act itself does not provide.
How it interacts with other laws
The Act is drafted to operate alongside, and to cross-refer to, several other legislative instruments. The statutory text itself identifies those interfaces and constraints.
Agvet Code. The Act adopts the meanings of words and expressions used in the Agvet Code (s 4A). Several provisions in this Act are identified as “eligible law” for the Agvet Code’s definition of permit (for example ss 7, 12, 13, 13E). That creates a direct regulatory linkage: decisions and permit regimes under the Agvet Code are relevant to exceptions and permitting in this Act.
Environmental Protection Act 1994. The Act imports agricultural ERA concepts by reference. For example, definitions for agricultural ERA and related accreditation and standards are cross-referenced to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (s 12W). Regulations declaring “prescribed agricultural ERA products” must be made only with regard to achieving the purpose of chapter 4A of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (s 13C(2)). Compliance alternatives for prescribed agricultural ERA conditions include applying an agricultural ERA standard or recognised accreditation program as defined under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (s 13D).
Medicines and Poisons Act 2019. The Act refers to S4 medicines under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 in the veterinary product provisions and record-keeping obligations (for example s 12I(2), s 12R(1)(b)). That cross-reference imports the scheduling regime and controls for certain pharmacological substances into the Act’s veterinary regulation.
Invasion of Privacy Act 1971. Use of body-worn cameras by inspectors is expressly authorised for the purposes of the Invasion of Privacy Act 1971, section 43(2)(d) (s 20A). The Act therefore seeks to create internal authorisation for listening devices in the specific context of inspector powers.
QCAT Act, Magistrates Court and District Court procedures. The Act delegates review and appeal jurisdiction to QCAT and the Magistrates Court for specified decisions (s 21A, ss 22-22E). Appeals to District Court are limited to questions of law (s 22E). The procedural form of rehearing and stay powers in the Magistrates Court are detailed in ss 22A-22D.
Criminal Code. Section 30A explicitly states that it does not affect liability under the Criminal Code, chapter 2. Thus, the executive officer and corporate liability regimes operate alongside general criminal law, not instead of it (s 30A(4)).
Justices Act 1886. The Act confirms that statutory defences expressed do not limit the application of s 76 of the Justices Act 1886 (s 28A). Practitioners must therefore consider that broader provision in any defence strategy where relevant.
Public Sector Act 2022. Standards officers and deputies may be employed under the Public Sector Act 2022 (s 4B), embedding administrative employment structures within that Act’s framework.
Information-sharing constraints and other laws. The Act authorises information-sharing arrangements with prescribed government entities despite another Act or law (s 36(3)), but limits use of received information to the purpose for which it was given (s 36(4)). At the same time, confidentiality obligations on the chief executive, inspectors and others (s 35) must be reconciled where disclosure or exchange is necessary. The Act therefore establishes a specific statutory carve-in for sharing and particular limits on broader use.
Mechanically, the Act therefore operates as a sector-specific overlay that borrows definitional and permit concepts from the Agvet Code, imports environmental standards and accreditation options from the Environmental Protection Act 1994, references poisoning/scheduling controls under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019, and dovetails with administrative review, criminal procedure and public sector employment law. Where the Act uses the phrase “eligible law” it presumes coordination with Agvet Code permit structures (for example ss 7, 12, 13, 13E). Practitioners must therefore consider this Act within that network when advising on permits, labelling, residue compliance, accreditation and prosecution exposure.
Amendment history
The statutory text as provided includes inline amendment annotations that identify several distinct waves of reform and insertion. The source‑text annotations themselves are the basis for this chronological sketch. The Act has evolved by adding offices, aligning terminology with federal regimes, integrating environmental controls and modernising enforcement tools.
Early amendments and 1993-1996 changes. The short title and initial commencement references show amendments in 1993 (s 1 amd 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1). Several provisions were inserted or amended in 1994 including the shift of definitions to the schedule and insertion of standards officer and inspector regime (see s 4 and ss 4B-4D annotated “ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch”). The 1996 annotations appear in relation to inspector powers and conditions (for example s 5 amendments).
2001-2002 Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals alignment. The Act was significantly recast to align with the Agvet Code and to introduce the broader veterinary and agricultural divisions. Multiple provisions were inserted or substantially amended by the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Legislation Amendment Act 2002 (annotations “ins 2002 No. 76 s …” appear across many sections such as s 7, s 12, ss 13-13E). These amendments added statutory cross-references to the Agvet Code (s 4A) and restructured offences and permit references.
2009 ERA-related changes. The Act was amended to address agricultural ERA matters with insertions of s 12W and the power to prescribe agricultural ERA products and conditions in s 13C (2009 No. 42 s 2B and s 2D entries). Those amendments cross-refer to the Environmental Protection Act 1994 and inserted new compliance pathways for agricultural ERAs.
2014-2015 residue and procedural amendments. Amendments in 2014 and 2015 appear in residue-related provisions and maximum residue limit rules, for example s 6 (amd 2014 No. 7 s 517) and various updates to ss 14, 15 and 18 (2014 No. 7 and 2015 No. 15 references appear).
2019-2020 modernisation and privacy issues. Annotations show that body-worn cameras and related authorisations were added in 2020 (s 20A ins 2020 No. 3 s 71). The Environmental Protection (Great Barrier Reef Protection Measures) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2019 produced transitional provisions and ERA-related definitions (s 40 ins 2019 No. 28 s 6). Confidentiality updates and information-sharing insertions are reflected by 2020 insertions (s 35 pres s 35 ins 2020 No. 3 s 72 and s 36 pres s 36 ins 2020 No. 3 s 72).
2024 updates for seizure return and forfeiture. The source includes recent amendments in 2024 for returning seized things and forfeiture procedures (sub 2024 No. 17 s 121 annotations for ss 32, 32A-32C, 32B). These provisions refine the administrative processes for seizure, return, forfeiture, notice and appeals.
The Act’s annotation pattern shows iterative layering: regulatory alignment with the Agvet Code and environmental law in the early 2000s, agricultural ERA insertions in 2009, residue and procedural tweaks in the 2010s, privacy and body-worn camera authorisations in 2020, and seizure/forfeiture procedural detail in 2024. The statute therefore reflects repeated substantive insertions rather than a single consolidated overhaul. The footnote-style amendment annotations in each section are the sole source material upon which this history is recorded in the text provided.
Litigation history
The provided statutory text does not include or cite any court decisions or litigation outcomes. The Act itself lays out the procedural and evidentiary regime that would shape litigation but does not record judicial interpretations or case law.
Statutory litigation hooks set out in the text include:
Reviewability and appeals. Specified decisions are reviewable by QCAT and by courts, and the Act prescribes rehearing standards, stays, powers and orders available on appeal (ss 21A; 22-22D; 32C). These procedural provisions define the routes by which disputes under the Act will reach tribunals and courts.
Evidentiary mechanisms designed to shape prosecutions. Analyst reports and standards officer certificates are statutorily admissible as evidence unless one party requires the analyst to be called (s 27). Certificates about registration, label approval and permit status are also expressly admissible (s 34). These provisions will affect proof strategies in any prosecution but do not themselves create litigation precedent.
Corporate and executive liability. The Act creates statutory liability for corporate executive officers (s 30A) and deemed executive liability for particular provisions (s 31). Litigation under these sections will turn on the statutory tests of “reasonable steps” and whether an officer “authorised or permitted” conduct; the Act sets the framework but not judicial application.
Because the source contains no litigation citations, practitioners must seek case law externally to understand judicial interpretation of the Act’s novel features such as executive officer defences, evidentiary presumptions and the scope of inspector powers. The Act provides the procedural map but not the adjudicative outcomes.
Gotchas
Several aspects of the Act are likely to catch operators, advisers and in-house counsel unaware unless specifically addressed. These “practical traps” flow from textual detail and the Act’s allocation of decision and enforcement power.
Executive liability vs deemed executive liability is bifurcated. Section 30A applies a “reasonable steps” test to executive officers for certain listed offences, while s 31 deems officer commission of an offence where the officer authorised or was knowingly concerned in corporate conduct for a different list of provisions. The lists differ (see s 30A(5) and s 31(4)). Conflating the two regimes or assuming the same defences apply to both will misstate exposure.
Broad inspector powers with low procedural friction. Inspectors may enter places using necessary force, break packages, seize and detain property and stop vehicles (s 20). Though warrants are required for entry into dwelling parts absent consent (s 21), the power to use force and immediate seizure increases the risk of abrupt disruption. Identity card display rules are mandatory before exercising powers in relation to a person (s 5C).
Immediate reporting duties with tight deadlines. The duty to report chemical residues that exceed maximum residue limits requires notification to the standards officer “as soon as practicable but within 24 hours” of becoming aware (s 15(2)). The duty attaches to a broad class of persons who “become aware”, including laboratories, veterinary surgeons and food-monitoring persons. Failure to meet this short deadline exposes the reporter to penalty units (s 15(2)).
Record retention default periods. Required instruction and advice records for trade species animals default to a two-year retention period if no regulation prescribes otherwise (ss 12O, 12Q, 12R). Reliance on the default without confirming any sector-specific regulation could cause non-compliance.
Alternative methods and concentration exceptions. The Act permits uses that would otherwise “contravene an instruction” in various circumstances. For agricultural products, the Act says using a lower concentration, lower rate, longer interval between uses, or alternative method does not contravene the instruction unless the instruction expressly forbids such changes (s 13B). This nuance can be overlooked by operators assuming any variance from label equals an offence.
Body-worn camera authorisation co-exists with confidentiality duties. Inspectors may lawfully use body-worn cameras (s 20A), but persons administering the Act are bound by confidentiality constraints (s 35). Coordinating recorded material with privacy and confidentiality obligations requires attention to permitted uses and consent routes.
Recall and destruction directions may be enforced and costs recovered. The standards officer can take action to comply with destruction or recall directions and recover expenses as a debt (s 19). Where a recall is ordered under s 14, non-compliance is a deemed executive liability provision and also attract other enforcement options.
Forfeiture and return processes have specific procedural notice rules and practical triggers. Seizures seized under s 20 may be returned by the chief executive unless there are reasonable grounds to keep them; forfeiture requires inquiries and specified notice obligations, and appeals apply (ss 32, 32A-32C). Failing to follow the required notice methods listed in s 32A when the owner is known, or misapplying the “reasonable inquiries” tests, can complicate recovery of property.
Evidence presumptions are favourable to enforcement. Analyst reports under the standards officer’s hand and certificates by the standards officer are statutory evidence unless the opposing party requires testimony (ss 27, 34). Challenging forensic evidence therefore typically requires early notice and linking to the analyst’s availability.
“Penalty units” are used throughout without conversion in the Act text. All maxima are stated in penalty units (e.g., 600 penalty units) but the Act as provided does not give the monetary value of a penalty unit. Practitioners must map penalty units to current monetary values using the relevant statutory instrument.
In all these cases the statutory language provides detailed mechanics. The practical risk is frequently procedural: short deadlines, chain-of-custody and labelling requirements, and the potential for immediate seizure or destruction with cost recovery. Because many powers rest with the standards officer and inspectors, factual readiness,records, permits, labelling, chain-of-custody and corporate governance documentation,matters at the operational level.
How to comply
Compliance under the Act requires operational controls, documentation practices, governance steps and a response plan for enforcement events. The following is a focused, source‑grounded checklist mapped to the Act’s key provisions.
Confirm product status and label conformity
Maintain an authoritative register of all agricultural and veterinary chemical products used or supplied and confirm whether each is a registered product or an unregistered/controlled/proscribed chemical (see ss 7, 8, 11A, 13A). For registered products, ensure use is consistent with approved label instructions unless a specific permit or authorisation applies (ss 7, 12, 13).
Where products are taken from containers, ensure an approved label is attached or retain documentation of an APVMA permit that relates to the container label (s 7(1)-(2)).
Permits and Agvet Code alignment
If any off‑label use, unregistered product use or supply is contemplated, obtain or verify a permit under the Agvet Code where the Act indicates permit exceptions (see ss 7, 12, 13, 13E and s 4A for definition alignment). Keep permit documentation readily available for inspectors and in any prosecution or administrative review.
Veterinary and pharmacist obligations
Veterinary surgeons must provide full, written instructions (which may include label instructions) and explain their meaning when prescribing or supplying non-standard or unregistered products; ensure the written instructions include the details required by s 12N (product identification, active constituent, dosage, withholding period, species, dates, supplier and recipient identification).
Retain records and copies of instructions as required by ss 12O, 12Q and 12R,default retention is two years unless a regulation prescribes otherwise.
If others act under a veterinary surgeon’s written directions (s 12D, 12H, 12L), ensure the written directions are preserved and accessible.
Withholding periods and animal identification
For trade species animals, ensure withholding periods are identified, adhered to and that animals subject to withholding are made identifiable by tagging, physical segregation or written records (s 12T). Do not allow shearing, slaughter or collection of milk/eggs during an applicable withholding period (s 12V).
When supplying animals subject to a withholding period, give written notice to the transferee with the contents required by s 12U and retain copies (s 12U(4)).
Sampling, laboratory reporting and reporting duties
Establish lab reporting and notification protocols so that any person who becomes aware that a residue exceeds a maximum residue limit advises the standards officer within 24 hours with the required information or laboratory report (s 15(2)-(5)). Maintain sample numbers and laboratory numbers to link reports to samples (s 15(6)).
Keep chain-of-custody documentation to support any later evidentiary need under ss 27 and 34.
Responding to notices, recalls and approvals
If a standards officer or inspector issues a notice under s 16 or the chief executive issues a direction under s 18, comply promptly or apply for an approval under s 17. Where an approval is sought, be ready to demonstrate that the proposed use or disposal will not unreasonably harm property, life, the environment or trade and that it is not a breach of another Act (s 17(2)).
Where a recall is directed (s 14), follow the notice terms and be aware that failure may expose the entity to penalties and that the standards officer may act and recover expenses (s 19).
Interaction with inspectors
Require all staff to cooperate with inspectors and provide immediate production of records made under the Act on request (s 24). Train staff on identity card production rules and the requirement to comply with inspector requirements (ss 5B-5C, s 20(2)).
Prepare for on-site procedures including vehicle stops and searches, sample seizure and sealing of premises or packages (s 20).
Corporate governance and executive exposure
Executive officers should document governance controls demonstrating reasonable steps to prevent corporate contraventions of listed executive liability provisions (s 30A): training, written policies, audits, reporting lines, delegation matrices and evidence of supervision of site practices will be relevant when the statutory “reasonable steps” test is applied.
Where an executive authorised or was knowingly involved in the conduct that contravened a deemed executive liability provision, be aware that s 31 may attribute liability directly.
Confidentiality and information-sharing
Implement data-handling procedures to respect the confidentiality obligations in s 35, and document lawful bases and consents where personal or commercially sensitive information is exchanged. Where information-sharing arrangements with government entities exist, use shared information only for the statutory purposes permitted under s 36.
Evidence and litigation preparedness
Maintain complete laboratory documentation, sample identifiers and analyst contact details because analyst reports and standards officer certificates carry statutory evidentiary weight (ss 27, 34). If you intend to challenge an analyst report, timely notice under s 27 is mandatory to require calling the analyst.
Track and calendar statutory time limits for prosecution and appeal (s 28(2); s 22A deadlines for filing appeals).
Insurance and financial planning
Factor potential costs of seizure, recall, destruction and recovery of standards officer expenses into operational risk models because s 19 makes such expenses a debt recoverable by the standards officer and s 29 permits courts to order convicted persons to pay analysis expenses.
Plan for potential sale or forfeiture procedures (ss 32-32B) and the possible return of sale proceeds after costs.
Regulatory watch and update cycle
Monitor regulations made under s 38 for maximum residue limits, prescribed agricultural ERA products, sampling standards, record-keeping prescriptions and statutory fees or forms. Many operational obligations are left to regulation and can alter record-retention, notification content, or penalty exposures.
By mapping these compliance actions directly to the Act’s sections,labelling (ss 7, 12, 13), veterinary instruction and records (ss 12M-12R, 12N), reporting and sampling (s 15), notices and approvals (ss 16-18), inspector interaction (s 20), corporate governance (ss 30A, 31), confidentiality (s 35) and information-sharing (s 36),operators can reduce legal risk. The practical focus should be on labelling and permit checks, robust record systems with sample identifiers, rapid reporting procedures to the standards officer, and corporate controls to satisfy the “reasonable steps” standard for executive officers where applicable.
Section sec.4AWords and expressions used in Agvet Code and this Act
The standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this or another Act.
A deputy standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this Act or by the standards officer.
s 4C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.4C-ssec.1) The standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this or another Act.
(sec.4C-ssec.2) A deputy standards officer has the functions and powers given to the officer under this Act or by the standards officer.
sec.4D Delegation by standards officer
sec.4D Delegation by standards officer
The standards officer may delegate to a deputy standards officer or another officer of the department the standards officer’s powers under this or another Act, including any powers delegated to the standards officer under this or another Act.
s 4D ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
sec.5 Appointment of inspectors and analysts
sec.5 Appointment of inspectors and analysts
The chief executive may appoint a person to be an inspector or analyst.
The chief executive may appoint a person as an inspector or analyst only if the chief executive is satisfied that the person has the necessary expertise or experience.
In this section—
inspector does not include the standards officer or a deputy standards officer.
s 5 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 1996 No. 13 s 10
(sec.5-ssec.1) The chief executive may appoint a person to be an inspector or analyst.
(sec.5-ssec.2) The chief executive may appoint a person as an inspector or analyst only if the chief executive is satisfied that the person has the necessary expertise or experience.
(sec.5-ssec.3) In this section— inspector does not include the standards officer or a deputy standards officer.
sec.5A Limitation of inspector’s powers
sec.5A Limitation of inspector’s powers
The powers of an inspector may be limited—
under a regulation; or
under a condition of appointment; or
by written notice of the chief executive given to the inspector.
s 5A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(a) under a regulation; or
(b) under a condition of appointment; or
(c) by written notice of the chief executive given to the inspector.
sec.5B Inspector’s identity card
sec.5B Inspector’s identity card
The chief executive must give each inspector an identity card.
The identity card must—
contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and
be signed by the inspector; and
identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
A person who ceases to be an inspector must return the person’s identity card to the chief executive as soon as practicable (but within 21 days) after the person ceases to be an inspector, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it.
Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
This section does not prevent the giving of a single identity card to a person under this Act and for other Acts or purposes.
s 5B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.5B-ssec.1) The chief executive must give each inspector an identity card.
(sec.5B-ssec.2) The identity card must— contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and be signed by the inspector; and identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
(sec.5B-ssec.3) A person who ceases to be an inspector must return the person’s identity card to the chief executive as soon as practicable (but within 21 days) after the person ceases to be an inspector, unless the person has a reasonable excuse for not returning it. Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.
(sec.5B-ssec.4) This section does not prevent the giving of a single identity card to a person under this Act and for other Acts or purposes.
(a) contain a recent photograph of the inspector; and
(b) be signed by the inspector; and
(c) identify the person as an inspector under this Act.
sec.5C Production or display of inspector’s identity card
sec.5C Production or display of inspector’s identity card
An inspector may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the inspector—
first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or
has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the inspector must produce the identity card for the person’s inspection at the first reasonable opportunity.
s 5C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.5C-ssec.1) An inspector may exercise a power under this Act in relation to someone else only if the inspector— first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
(sec.5C-ssec.2) However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (1) , the inspector must produce the identity card for the person’s inspection at the first reasonable opportunity.
(a) first produces his or her identity card for the person’s inspection; or
(b) has the identity card displayed so it is clearly visible to the person.
sec.6 Maximum residue limit
sec.6 Maximum residue limit
The maximum residue limit prescribed under this Act for any of the following may be zero—
agricultural produce;
manufactured stock food;
the tissue of a trade species animal;
a product derived from a trade species animal.
s 6 amd 2014 No. 7 s 517
(a) agricultural produce;
(b) manufactured stock food;
(c) the tissue of a trade species animal;
(d) a product derived from a trade species animal.
pt.2 Use of chemicals and substances having chemical residues
Use of chemicals and substances having chemical residues
pt.2-div.1 Chemicals generally
Chemicals generally
sec.7 Use of registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products taken from unlabelled containers
sec.7 Use of registered agricultural and veterinary chemical products taken from unlabelled containers
A person must not use a registered agricultural or veterinary chemical product taken from a container that does not have attached to it an approved label for containers for the product.
Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
Subsection (1) does not apply if the product was taken from a container with a label for which the APVMA issued a permit.
It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove—
the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or
the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
s 7 prev s 7 sub 1993 No. 32 s 3 sch 1
om 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
pres s 7 ins 2002 No. 76 s 19
amd 2006 No. 48 s 48 sch
(sec.7-ssec.1) A person must not use a registered agricultural or veterinary chemical product taken from a container that does not have attached to it an approved label for containers for the product. Maximum penalty—300 penalty units.
(sec.7-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply if the product was taken from a container with a label for which the APVMA issued a permit.
(sec.7-ssec.3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (1) to prove— the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
(sec.7-ssec.4) This section is an eligible law for the definition ‘permit’ under section 109 of the Agvet Code .
(a) the product was put in the container ready for use after being taken from another container having attached to it an approved label for containers for the product; or
(b) the product was supplied by a veterinary surgeon in the container and the person uses the product in the way stated in the written instructions or dispensing label supplied with the product.
sec.8 Use of controlled chemicals
sec.8 Use of controlled chemicals
A regulation may—
declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and
set conditions for use of the chemical.
A person must not use a controlled chemical in a way that contravenes a condition for use of the chemical.
Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
s 8 prev s 8 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(5)–(6) exp 15 March 1997 (see s 8(6))
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
pres s 8 (prev s 8E) ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2002 No. 76 s 22 (1)
renum 2002 No. 76 s 22 (2)
(sec.8-ssec.1) A regulation may— declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and set conditions for use of the chemical.
(sec.8-ssec.2) A person must not use a controlled chemical in a way that contravenes a condition for use of the chemical. Maximum penalty for subsection (2) —600 penalty units.
(a) declare an unregistered chemical to be a controlled chemical (the controlled chemical ); and
(b) set conditions for use of the chemical.
Section sec.8A
s 8A ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
amd 2001 No. 63 s 5
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
Section sec.8B
s 8B ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
Section sec.8C
s 8C ins 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
om 2002 No. 76 s 20
sec.9 Person not to possess or use proscribed chemical
sec.9 Person not to possess or use proscribed chemical
A person shall not have in his or her possession or use a proscribed chemical unless the person has the written permission of the Minister to do so and the person’s possession or, as the case may be, use of the chemical is in accordance with the terms and conditions of the permit.
Maximum penalty—800 penalty units.
This provision is an executive liability provision—see section 30A .
s 9 amd 2002 No. 76 ss 17 , 30 sch 1 ; 2015 No. 15 s 61
sec.10 Person not to dispose of package or chemical in improper manner
sec.10 Person not to dispose of package or chemical in improper manner
A person shall not dispose of or discard a chemical, or a package that contains or has contained a chemical, in a manner—
such that harm is caused or is likely to be caused to the property of any other person, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country; or
that is contrary to the manner (if any) prescribed.
(a) such that harm is caused or is likely to be caused to the property of any other person, any human or animal life, the environment or the State’s trade with any other State or a Territory or another country; or
(b) that is contrary to the manner (if any) prescribed.
sec.11 Claims inconsistent with labels
sec.11 Claims inconsistent with labels
This section applies to a claim—
about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and
inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
For the purposes of section 84 (2) of the Agvet Code —
the standards officer or a deputy standards officer, or a person acting under the direction of either officer, may make a claim under this Act; and
an officer of the public service or another employee of the State may make a claim in the course of the person’s employment by the State; and
a person prescribed by regulation may make a claim in the circumstances prescribed by regulation.
Subsection (2) applies only if the claim is made honestly and without negligence.
s 11 sub 1994 No. 78 s 37 sch
(sec.11-ssec.1) This section applies to a claim— about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
(sec.11-ssec.2) For the purposes of section 84 (2) of the Agvet Code — the standards officer or a deputy standards officer, or a person acting under the direction of either officer, may make a claim under this Act; and an officer of the public service or another employee of the State may make a claim in the course of the person’s employment by the State; and a person prescribed by regulation may make a claim in the circumstances prescribed by regulation.
(sec.11-ssec.3) Subsection (2) applies only if the claim is made honestly and without negligence.
(a) about a registered chemical product, or a chemical product containing a registered chemical product; and
(b) inconsistent with an instruction on an approved label for containers for the registered chemical product.
(a) the standards offic
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