The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) introduced significant restrictions on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) from 24 March 2026.
Products containing SGARs have been suspended for one year while stricter controls are implemented to reduce risks to native wildlife, pets and livestock. The APVMA has also indicated that SGARs will be subject to tighter access controls and restricted use requirements.
This is more than a regulatory update. It represents a significant change in how pest control programs are managed within food businesses operating under HACCP, SQF, BRCGS, FSSC 22000 and other GFSI-recognised food safety standards.
For dairy producers, processors, and transport operators, key implications include:
- The need to review and update pest control programs to reflect the new SGAR restrictions.
- Increased reliance on licensed pest management providers.
- Additional risk assessments and justification for ongoing SGAR use.
- Greater documentation and verification requirements for food safety audits.
- Updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS) where bait products or active ingredients change.
Dairysafe encourages accredited operators to speak with their pest control provider to understand the practical impacts on their site, including any changes required to pest management plans, monitoring programs and food safety documentation.
Effective rodent control remains a critical component of food safety and biosecurity. Early engagement with your pest management specialist will help ensure compliance with the new requirements while maintaining effective protection of products, facilities and feed storage.