Genetic modification

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development conducts research, development and extension activities in collaboration with industry partners to improve the productivity and profitability of Western Australian agriculture sector.

The department is part of the nationally consistent regulatory system that underpins and enhances Australia's and Western Australia's use of safe regulatory approved genetically modified organisms.

The value of Australia’s production and export of produce is dependent on maintaining the competitiveness of WA agriculture producers. Growers need access to the most productive new crop varieties to maintain their international competitiveness and genetic modification is a type of plant breeding that can deliver new improved varieties.