Changes to the Gene Technology Regulations

The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) have introduced new regulations and guidlines for working with Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

The new regulations took effect on 1 July 2007.

There are significant changes in the regulations with the major impact being that many dealings have been downgraded.  For example work conducted with either transgenic or knock out animals is now classified at a Notifiable Low Risk Dealing PC1  (PC1 NLRD) and can be conducted in a Physcial Containment level 1 laboratory.  Some dealings previously classified as NLRD have been down graded to Exempt.

In addition, notification and approval of dealings has changed.  NLRDs are now submitted and approved by the Instiutional Biosafety Committee.  Researcher no longer need to awaite approval from the OGTR in Canbera but can begin work once the IBC has approved the classification.

Further information on the regulations can be found on the OGTR Website.

If  you have any questions about this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Research Compliance Officer on 9905 5162 or gene.technology@adm.monash.edu.au