Understanding permits for the safe chemical control of varroa

Summary

All chemicals and medicines used in agriculture must be registered or authorised by a permit issued by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).

It is critical that only chemicals that are registered or have a valid permit for distribution and application are used. Decisions about which chemicals can be used are made by the APVMA and are based on many factors including effectiveness, safety, toxicity, the risk of residues remaining in food or the environment, and the safety of livestock being treated.

Each permit has a unique number and an expiry date, before which permits are reviewed and may be renewed.
A single permit can be for one or more chemicals and may be held by a specific body who can supply and use the chemical, or it may be more generally available for supply, distribution, and use. Permitted users are described under the heading “Persons who can use the product under this permit.”