THE GRAINS industry has welcomed the Queensland Government’s decision to adopt a three-year transition into new workplace exposure limits (WELs) on 15 substances, including phosphine and grain dust.

It means the new limits will be enforceable from 1 December 2029 instead of 1 December 2026, and AgForce Grains president Brendan Taylor said the decision by Qld’s Deputy Premier was a practical, common-sense outcome for growers in the middle of harvest.

“We thank the Deputy Premier, the Crisafulli Government and Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for listening to farmers and industry and acting before 1 December,” Mr Taylor said.

“After a tough year and a harvest interrupted by regular rainfall, growers can now focus on what matters most: getting their crop harvested, stored safely and moving to market, with confidence about the rules they’re working under.”

The decision also supports a more consistent national approach.

Grain moves across state borders through one supply chain, from farm storage to receival sites and ports, and consistent rules help keep it moving.

Mr Taylor said the outcome showed the value of a united industry voice.

“AgForce has worked constructively with the government, jointly with Grain Trade Australia, Grain Producers Australia, and GrainGrowers.

“We thank our industry partners for their united approach, which is delivering better outcomes for growers.”

AgForce will continue to work with the state government, including Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, on practical guidance for growers.

Source: AgForce