Determining a 'Dealing' in relation to GMO research

Identifying a 'Dealing' with a GMO

Under Australia's Gene Technology Act 2000, "dealing" is a deliberately broad and all-encompassing term. It is designed to cover every possible interaction a researcher might have with a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO). Understanding if your work constitutes a 'dealing' is the first step toward understanding the approval requirements, and ensuring your research is safe and compliant.

Dealing or deal with, in relation to a GMO, means the following:

  1. conduct experiments with the GMO;
  2. make, develop, produce or manufacture the GMO;
  3. breed the GMO;
  4. propagate the GMO;
  5. use the GMO in the course of manufacture of a thing that is not the GMO;
  6. grow, raise or culture the GMO;
  7. import the GMO;
  8. transport the GMO;
  9. dispose of the GMO; and/or
  10. includes the possession, supply or use of the GMO.

Anyone wishing to carry out research on a GMO must first of all determine the level of dealing from the following list. Details and definitions are found on the OGTR website and the IBC can also be contacted to provide advice on classifying levels of dealings.

Levels of Dealing with a GMO

  1. Exempt dealing
  2. Notifiable Low Risk Dealings (NLRD)
  3. Dealings Not Involving Intentional Release (DNIR)
  4. Dealings Involving Intentional Release (DIR)

All current GMO work at UNE is classified either as an exempt dealing or an NLRD.  For information on how to apply to conduct this work at UNE, see the Forms, Guidelines and Key Resources page.