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Biotechnology Policy

Introduction

Biotechnology is a broad term for a group of technologies based on the application of biological processes. The responsible use of biotechnology offers Australia many opportunities to greatly increase its international competitiveness and the standard of living for all Australians.

The Department of Primary industries (DPI) believes that biotechnology offers significant benefits for producers, the food manufacturing industry, consumers and the community. Indeed, biotechnology could offer considerable economic benefits by improving the productivity and quality of agricultural products, as well as contributing to the development of sustainable farming systems.

At the same time, DPI is aware of public concerns regarding the application of biotechnology and is committed to undertaking its research and development in strict conformance with national regulations. DPI is also committed to providing factual information that will promote a better understanding of this developing technology and support the community to make informed decisions regarding the application of biotechnology in agriculture and natural resource management.

DPI Biotechnology Charter 2011

DPI has a Biotechnology Charter that provides a framework through which DPI will responsibly use biotechnology research, development and extension in the primary industries.

The DPI Biotechnology Charter 2011 recognises wider Victorian Government plans such as the Victoria’s Technology Plan for the Future - Biotechnology. Both the DPI Biotechnology Charter and Victoria’s Technology Plan for the Future - Biotechnology are available below.

DPI Biotechnology Charter 2011

Victoria’s Technology Plan for the Future - Biotechnology

Victoria’s Technology Plan for the Future – Biotechnology, will help consolidate the strength of Victorian biotechnology as an important sector in its own right and promote biotechnology-enabled innovation in other industries to increase productivity growth across the economy.

Victoria's Technology Plan for the Future (Biotechnology)

DPI engages in a wide range of scientific research including areas in conventional agriculture, organic agriculture, natural resource management, catchment management, forestry and aquaculture. Biotechnology is one area of research investment. Information on DPI’s research programs and research adoption can be located under the Science and Research in Agriculture section of this website.