Research Services

Research Ethics and Integrity

Recombinant DNA Research

Dealings

Dealings with GMOs, as described in the Gene Technology Act 2000, means to:

• Conduct experiments with GMOs
• Make, develop, produce or manufacture the GMO
• Breed or propogate the GMO
• Use the GMO to manufacture something that is not the GMO
• Grow, raise or culture the GMO
• Import, transport or dispose the GMO

The Act describes 4 types of dealings, depending on the type and activity of the GMO.

• Exempt Dealings
• Notifiable Low Risk Dealings (NLRD)
• Dealings Not involving Intentional Release (DNIR)
• Dealings involving Intentional Release (DIR)

Exempt & NLRDs can be assessed/approved by the Genetic Manipulation Supervisory Committee (GMSC) whilst licences must be obtained from the OGTR for all DNIRs & DIRs. The maximum period of approval for GMSC approved applications is 5 years. No work with GMOs can commence until the appropriate approval has been received and the conditions of such approval such as containment restrictions and risk management processes are complied with.