Chapter 3
Issues raised in evidence
3.1
Most submitters to the inquiry were generally supportive of the purpose
and intent of the bill.[1] However, there were a number of issues and concerns raised in relation to key provisions
of the bill. This chapter explores these issues and considers the evidence
provided during the inquiry.
Part 1—Approval and registration
3.2
The proposed amendments under Part 1 would insert sections 14C, 14D and
14E to the Code to provide for a streamlined assessment process for 'prescribed
applications' that is faster, simpler and less costly. Prescribed applications would
be for products considered to be of low- and medium-risk.[2]
3.3
Some submitters questioned the proposed changes on the basis that prescribed
applications would receive minimal or no technical assessment. Grain Producers
Australia (GPA) offered only partial support for the provision. While it argued
in favour of reforms that accelerated the evaluation process and avoided
unnecessary delays for new chemical approvals, it expressed concern that
potentially minor variations requiring minimal technical assessment could in
fact have significant consequences. To highlight its concerns, GPA explained
that under the existing prescribed variation process, formulation changes with
some chemical herbicide products had 'resulted in major changes to efficacy,
particularly where lower manufacturing cost formulations have been used'.[3]
3.4
Similarly, the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)
offered conditional support to the amendments on the basis that the details of
what comprises 'minimal technical risk' were yet to be described in the
regulations. GRDC referenced the GPA's concerns with the existing prescribed
variation process, and suggested that the APVMA would need a legislative
mechanism to withdraw prescribed approvals and registrations where there were
adverse experiences.[4]
3.5
Dr Ian Musgrave questioned the utility of the amendments on the basis
that 'it is hard to imagine a circumstance where minimal or no assessment of
technical information is required for a new approval'.[5] Similarly, Gene Ethics argued that there was a 'lack of objective measures and
a general paucity of good data to establish that certain chemicals are of low
enough risk to justify simpler regulatory processes'. It questioned how a
chemical could be classed as low risk without any supporting information or
technical evidence being presented to the regulator.[6]
3.6
However, according to DAWR, the process for prescribed applications will
be similar to that which already exists for notifiable and prescribed
variations, which can be submitted once a product has been approved and
registered. Further, it made the point that safeguards will
remain in place to ensure that only safe and effective products continue to be
available.[7]
3.7
A number of submitters voiced their support for the proposed amendments
for reasons of efficiency. The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) and Animal Medicines
Australia (AMA) argued in favour of the proposed amendments on the basis that they
would lead to faster and less costly approval and registration processes, and
would better align regulatory effort with risk.[8]
Part 2—Information to be taken into account in determining applications
3.8
Part 2 contains amendments to allow the APVMA to consider, during the
assessment period, 'certain types of new information' not included in an
original application.
3.9
Some submitters including Dr Ian Musgrave raised questions about the
amendments. He suggested that the changes would make the application process
more complex and piecemeal rather than providing flexibility.[9]
3.10
Gene Ethics also opposed the amendments. It argued that the bill and EM
had failed to define the scope of 'certain types of new information' and that the
public had the right to know what was envisaged.[10]
3.11
However, in its submission, DAWR clarified the purpose of the amendments.
It explained that prior to the 2013 Amendment Act, applicants were able to
provide information to the APVMA while an assessment was underway. This led to
the provision of sub-standard or incomplete applications and additional work
for the APVMA in undertaking additional assessments not foreseen when
applications were first made. The 2013 amendments aimed to encourage the
submission of complete and high-quality applications as the APVMA was prevented
from considering new information after an application had been made, with one
exception. The APVMA could specifically request information under a section 159
notice.
3.12
DAWR noted that the proposed amendments in the bill would provide for a
more efficient system as certain types of (limited) information could be
provided and considered by the APVMA during the assessment period for an
application without the need for a section 159 notice.[11]
3.13
The AMA voiced its support for this measure on the basis that it would
remove the need for the APVMA to issue section 159 notices to request simple,
clarifying information that required no technical assessment. It also made the
point that the changes would address the current need for applicants to submit
a variation application immediately after an original application had been
finalised in order to submit additional information.[12] The AMA further explained:
Given the long timeframes for some application types, it is
reasonable that applicants will often have more, or updated, information
available while the original information is being assessed. Simple clarifying
information, such as updated Good Manufacturing Practice certificates or
clearer copies of a document already provided, is primarily administrative and
does not require technical assessment. This simple clarifying information
should not be associated with additional assessment timeframe and associated
fees, like those imposed with the issue of a S159 notice or submission of a variation
application.[13]
3.14
Similarly, the Herbicide Consortium, GPA, NFF and GRDC supported the
proposed changes on the basis they would speed up the evaluation process and
avoid unnecessary delays for new chemical approvals.[14]
Part 3—Limits on the use of information
3.15
Part 3 provides for extensions to existing limitation and protection
periods for information used to assesses or reconsider certain chemical
products. This amendment aims to encourage chemical companies to register
certain new uses of chemical products, specifically for minor uses.[15]
3.16
The amendments provide that an extension would be automatically
triggered if a certain type of application (prescribed by regulation) was lodged
at least three years prior to the end of the existing limitation or protection
period. It was foreshadowed by DAWR that the regulations defining eligible
applications would include technical detail and priority uses that would change
over time.[16]
3.17
The proposed provisions were supported by some submitters including the
NFF.[17] Others offered conditional support whilst raising a number of concerns. A few
submitters including Gene Ethics opposed the measures outright on the basis
that they place a 'restraint on public access to information and data submitted
in support of applications and chemical reviews'.[18] GPA also suggested that the measures would not provide the tools for industry
to remain internationally competitive and that greater investment was required.[19]
3.18
GRDC supported the intent of the proposed reforms, but warned the method
for determining the additional protection periods was not balanced across crop
groupings and could, in fact, serve as a disincentive for some minor use crops.[20]
3.19
Whilst the AMA supported the amendments in principle, it held the view
that the provisions would have limited application to veterinary medicines. The
AMA stated:
Unlike crops, animal species are rarely grouped together.
Simple groupings of animal species, or generalisations between animal species,
cannot be made because the differences in drug pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics between species are numerous and often unpredictable.
Veterinary applications will continue to need to be assessed on a case-by-case
basis to ensure the safety and efficacy of use in each animal species.[21]
3.20
The Herbicide Consortium did not oppose the measures but warned of the
negative consequences for growers. It accepted that the measures would provide incentives
for chemical companies to develop and register new chemistry that would aid
growers and negate the need for minor use permits. At the same time, it raised
concern that the measures would likely keep prices higher for longer because of
reduced competition from generics.[22]
3.21
In its submission, DAWR explained some chemical uses that are available
overseas are not registered in Australia because they are not expected to
produce sufficient economic return to offset the cost of approval or
registration (including data generation), despite farmers (and other users)
needing these chemical uses. It noted that the proposed measures will encourage
more uses to be included on product labels and could reduce the need for
permits.[23] DAWR also made the point that encouraging more priority uses to be added to
product labels could also reduce the regulatory burden on product users who may
otherwise seek permits. [24]
Part 4—Computerised decision-making
3.22
Amendments proposed under Part 4 of the bill provide for the APVMA to
use a computer program to make a decision, exercise any power or comply with
any obligation.
3.23
The proposed amendments allow for the APVMA to substitute a computerised
decision within 60 days if it believes that the decision made by the computer
program is incorrect. By introducing computerised decision-making, the measures
are designed to contribute to greater efficiency in decision-making.[25]
3.24
In its submission to the inquiry, DAWR stated that similar provisions
were already contained in the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, and proposed
in the Industrial Chemicals Bill 2017.[26]
3.25
There was support for the introduction of computerised decision-making
from a number of submitters. The GPA supported the reform to the extent it
would promote a move from paper-based to digital systems.[27] Similarly, GRDC recognised the potential for the APVMA to integrate the
regulatory system into the digital age and the fast approaching autonomous
machine age.[28]
3.26
The NFF supported computerised decision-making for largely
administrative processes and noted the importance of allowing the APVMA to
substitute an incorrect computerised decision.[29] The Herbicide Consortium supported the reform on the basis it would benefit
small users by simplifying the regulatory process.[30]
3.27
Other submissions qualified their support. For instance, whilst
supportive of the measure in principle, the AMA cautioned that any computerised
decision-making system would need to be routinely validated to ensure that the
correct decisions were made to reduce the need for additional human verification.
Otherwise, the efficiency gains brought about by the introduction of the automated
decision-making system may be undermined.[31]
3.28
Dr Musgrave acknowledged that computerised decision-making could
accelerate certain administrative processes but also raised concern that the
bill did not provide any detail about how it would be administered. Noting the
failures of several high profile computerised systems, he suggested that the
provisions be reconsidered.[32]
3.29
Gene Ethics opposed the measure on the basis it was the first step in
delegating substantial decision-making powers to algorithms.[33]
3.30
However, DAWR confirmed that a cautious approach was to be taken whereby
computerised decision-making would be used where the APVMA considered it
appropriate. While highlighting the safeguards in place to review and
substitute a computerised decision, DAWR suggested that computerised decision-making
would be particularly suitable for decisions of a largely administrative
nature.[34]
Part 5—Accreditation of assessors
3.31
Part 5 provides for the accreditation of third party assessors. Under
the proposal, assessors would be accredited for two main purposes:
- to undertake assessments on behalf of the APVMA, as currently
occurs when the APVMA outsources some elements of technical assessments to
third party external assessors who have particular expertise in certain areas;
and
- to undertake assessments on behalf of industry for inclusion in
applications made to the APVMA.
3.32
Most submitters acknowledged the need for industry to have access to a
timely and effective regulatory system.[35] A substantial number supported the proposed scheme or offered in principle
support, subject to certain concerns being addressed. It was recognised that many
of these concerns may be addressed when the details of the scheme are
prescribed in regulation. One submission opposed the scheme outright on public
interest and accountability grounds.[36]
3.33
Amongst the concerns raised in submissions were issues relating to regulatory
risk and the potential for conflicts of interest that are inherent in third
party assessment models. The Western Australia Department of Primary Industries
and Regional Development (DPIRD) acknowledged the APVMA had used independent
assessors under contract for a number of years, most often for a particular
assessment or task. However, along with the GRDC, DPIRD identified the proposed
system as fundamentally different in one key respect—assessors would be
selected by a registrant.[37]
3.34
These submitters cautioned that allowing chemical companies to pay
accredited third party providers to undertake assessment services directly on
their behalf could risk the integrity, credibility and reputation of the regulatory
process. For instance, GRDC suggested that the system had the potential to put
undue pressure on assessors to approve data packages that were marginal to
meeting the regulatory requirements.[38] The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) added its concerns:
Chemical companies invest significant resources in product
development and delays in regulatory approval can carry significant costs. It
is foreseeable that they may prioritise their financial interests ahead of the
public interest. Independent assessors would also have a financial interest in
attracting and retaining assessment work. This increases the risk of decisions
being influenced by financial concerns or pressures.[39]
3.35
As to the potential for a real or perceived conflict of interest, the
concerns raised by the DPIRD and GRDC were echoed by Dr Musgrave who stated:
The AVMPA not only must be independent, but must been seen to
be independent for there to be public trust in the registration process. The
evaluation process must be at arm's length from the sponsors...and they should
not be paid by the sponsors...the perceived conflict of interest in the case will
be substantial (even though the assessors are professionals of the highest
integrity, it is the perceived conflict of interest that is the issue).[40]
3.36
The suggested mitigation measures for regulatory risk and conflict of
interest concerns varied. The DPIRD called for robust management mechanisms.[41] GRDC suggested accredited external assessors should only assess low-risk
applications and further, could be allocated to registrants by the APVMA. It
argued that these measures would allow the assessor to maintain independence
from the registrant and uphold the integrity of the registration system.[42] Dr Musgrave emphasised the importance of establishing formal processes and requirements
for accreditation, data handling and conflicts of interest.[43]
3.37
Concerns with regard to the administration, cost and governance of the
accreditation scheme were raised by the AMA, which offered in principle support
for the proposal. The AMA recommended consultation with industry to ensure any
arrangement put in place provided a net benefit for the community.[44] DAWR confirmed in its submission that any decision about penalties, fees or
other aspects of the scheme, would be subject to consultation when the
legislative instrument setting out the scheme was developed.[45]
3.38
Concerns about liability were raised by the GPA, which partly supported
the reforms, citing the potential of the scheme to break the current APVMA
'monopoly'. The GPA stated there would need to be provisions in the regulations
to protect the liability of assessors, with final decisions and liability risk
being held by the APVMA. It warned that failure to put in place limitations on
liability from negligence would raise the cost of insurance premiums and could make
the program unworkable.[46]
3.39
In response to some of the concerns raised about the proposal, DAWR
highlighted the point that the APVMA was already working with industry on a
pilot project in which third party external assessors were engaged directly by
applicants (from a list of APVMA-approved assessors) to conduct pre-application
assessment of efficacy and target animal and crop safety.[47]
3.40
Furthermore, by opening data assessment to competition, DAWR made the
point that applicants would get more control over data assessment timeframes
and costs; processes within the APVMA could be simplified; and efficiency would
be improved. It further clarified that while the bill provides for the
accreditation of assessors, the particulars will be determined in the
regulations.[48]
Part 7—Notification of new information
3.41
Under this proposed amendment, obligations will be placed on holders of
label approvals, and applicants for label approvals and variations to approvals
or registrations, to provide relevant information to the APVMA. Relevant
information is information that shows an active constituent or product may not
meet statutory criteria or contradicts the information in the application or
information the APVMA has recorded in the Record of Approved Active
Constituents for Chemical Products kept under section 17 of the Code or in the Register
of Agricultural and Veterinary Chemical Products (Register) kept under section
18 of the Code.[49]
3.42
In its submission, DAWR noted that the obligations already apply to
holders of active constituent approvals and product registrations, and the
proposed amendments would address a gap in the current requirements in the Code.
DAWR explained that the measures would ensure that the regulator is aware of
the latest information available while also providing safeguards to protect
public, animal and plant health from potential damage when new information
about an agvet chemical comes to light.[50]
3.43
There was general support for these reforms in submissions to the
inquiry. The GPA and GRDC voiced their support, as did the NFF, which
encouraged more consistency in agvet chemical labelling. Similarly, the
Herbicide Consortium supported the change and encouraged the APVMA to
communicate the changes with permit holders.[51]
3.44
Gene Ethics also supported the proposal so long as any changes did not
compromise existing strict reporting rules. Raising a related matter, Gene
Ethics highlighted the importance of interested public and advocacy groups having
a clear role in, and path to, notifying the APVMA of new evidence and
information as it became available. It further noted that the regulator should
be required to review and respond to such advice, in consultation with those
who submitted it.[52]
Part 8—Definition of registered chemical product
3.45
Part 8 of the bill proposes to amend the Code to allow for variations,
within certain prescribed limits, of the concentration of constituents, the
kinds of constituents, and the composition and purity of constituents in
chemical products—as might occur, for example, during standard manufacturing
processes.
3.46
Many submitters supported the proposed reform, including the NFF and the
GPA, however others raised concerns.[53] The AMA recognised the measure as a more efficient way to accommodate routine
(safe) variations in constituent concentrations that arise during manufacture,
but which do not represent fundamental changes in the composition of that
product, or affect the quality, efficacy or safety of that product.[54] However, it argued that veterinary chemical products should be considered
differently to agricultural chemical products. The AMA stated the majority of
veterinary products were manufactured in compliance with the Australian Code of
Good Manufacturing Practice (the GMP Code), or equivalent overseas GMP codes,
which included strict requirements for quality assurance and batch consistency.[55]
3.47
Other submitters questioned whether small variations would always be
safe. GRDC offered its conditional support on the proviso that there was an appropriate
legislative mechanism to withdraw approvals where small changes resulted in
adverse experience reports. It explained:
While the proposed changes are deemed low risk, certain
combined changes across the other constituents could result in decreased
efficacy or product stability. If such unintended consequences occur the APVMA
needs to have the legislative mechanisms to withdraw the approvals or change
the standards.[56]
3.48
This point was expanded by Dr Musgrave who stated:
While the idea that there can be some degree of variation in
the chemical constituents of a product (with in manufacturing tolerances) is
attractive, this section needs more clarity. While a ± 5% concentration of an
active ingredient is not problematic, these tolerances should be carefully
defined...Non active ingredients might be assumed to be less of a problem, but
the human health literature is replete with examples where supposed non-active
excipient substitution caused severe health issues. The current proposal lacks
appropriate detail.[57]
3.49
Gene Ethics opposed the proposal and urged the APVMA to develop a
scientific framework for measuring variations in agvet chemical products, to
provide a means of measuring whether any deviation from the standard formula approved
by the APVMA was minor or major.[58]
3.50
However, in its submission, DAWR emphasised the point that the measure
would not allow for fundamental changes in a product's composition—such changes
would continue to require a variation application.[59] It further clarified that under the current legislation, the concentration of
each constituent in a chemical product had to be the same as the concentration
recorded in the Register. It noted that this did not allow for routine, safe
variations in constituent concentration arising in manufacturing. Although
regulations currently allowed for the regulator to prescribe concentration
ranges, offences and civil penalty provisions in Part 4 of the Code meant a
product could not be supplied if it was formulated differently to the
'registered' formulation. The consequence of this inconsistency was that
holders had to make an application to the APVMA to include more detail about a
product's composition to the Register. This regulatory effort was considered to
be inconsistent with the risks.[60]
Part 9—Suspension or cancellation of approval or registration for provision
of false or misleading information
3.51
The proposed amendments in Part 9 of the bill aim to address existing
anomalies to provide more comprehensive grounds for suspending or cancelling
approvals or registrations where false or misleading information is given in
connection with an application.[61]
3.52
Most submitters, including the GPA, NFF, AMA and GRDC supported the
reform, noting the importance of having uniform provisions for suspension or
cancellation when false or misleading information had been provided to the
regulator.[62]
3.53
Gene Ethics also supported the proposed reforms on the grounds that it
was appropriate to broaden the circumstances where a more proportionate APVMA
response was available to sanction instances where false or misleading
information had been supplied. It did, however, question whether the grounds
for suspension or cancellation went far enough to include claims and information
in advertising, promotions and advice.[63]
Part 10—Supply of registered chemical products with unapproved label
3.54
Proposed amendments under Part 10 of the bill aim to clarify what
information must be included in a label; and to allow for trade out of a product
which contains a label previously approved but where the label is subject to
new required information.
3.55
The GPA supported the reform to make the requirements for minimum
information on labels clearer, noting the amendment would clarify the need for the
label to contain information like the nominated agent, the holder of approval and
the marketer of the product.[64] Similarly, GRDC supported the proposal while the AMA stated it did not oppose
the amendments.[65] The NFF was supportive, but also noted that more work was required to make
labels consistent and more user-friendly.[66]
Part 11 —Variation of approval or registration during suspension
3.56
Part 11 amendments provide for two issues:
- to allow the holder of a suspended registration to address the
reasons for the suspension whilst it is suspended; and
-
to allow for a holder to request a suspension (rather than
requiring the holder to request a cancellation), to deal with administrative
matters.
3.57
The NFF, GRDC and AMA supported the amendment on the grounds of efficiency.
The AMA stated that it would deliver small efficiency improvements for the
regulator, and significant improvements for the applicant to return a product
to the market.[67]
3.58
The GPA partly supported the changes. It agreed on the need for a more
pragmatic mechanism to vary a suspended chemical product registration in some
cases. However, it warned that making the process too easy might result in
registrants failing to take timely responsibility for the registration of their
products, preferring to manage situations after the effect. It suggested that a
penalty may be required in instances of a continued suspension.[68]
Part 12—Safety, efficacy, trade and labelling criteria
3.59
The measures proposed in Part 12 would permit regulations to be made
with regard to labelling criteria; and allow for a regulation to direct the
APVMA to have regard to international data when determining whether an active
constituent or chemical product meets safety criteria, efficacy criteria, trade
criteria and labelling criteria.
3.60
GRDC supported the proposed reform, as did the AMA, though it noted the
APVMA had already taken administrative action that had substantively the same
effect as this regulatory reform measure.[69] The GPA also noted that the APVMA had already taken administrative action to
maximise the use of international data in its assessments. The GPA was
concerned that this requirement might become compulsory. The GPA also argued
that:
-
the change would unnecessarily increase the operational demands
of the APVMA, requiring unsolicited review assessment under their normal
assessment process; and
-
there were sovereignty risks to creating legislative review
triggers in Australia based on overseas information.[70]
3.61
The NFF agreed that the APVMA had to retain discretion over how it used international
data, and its decision-making role in registrations and approvals had to be
preserved. Nevertheless, it did not oppose the measures, acknowledging that it
was important for the APVMA to continue considering international data.[71]
3.62
DAWR acknowledged the concerns raised in evidence about sovereignty
risks. It explained if a supporting regulation was made in the future that required
the APVMA to take account of international data, the APVMA would retain
discretion over how it used the material and its decision-making role in
registrations and approvals would be preserved. DAWR continued:
The potential benefit of such a regulation, if the government
ever considered it necessary, would be to support the APVMA's current approach
to using international assessments and data, and to provide greater
predictability for stakeholders about the APVMA's ongoing use of international
data and assessments.[72]
Part 13—Annual operational plan
3.63
The proposed amendments in Part 13 of the bill aim to eliminate the
duplication caused by the APVMA being required to develop and seek approval for
an annual operational plan and a corporate plan, reducing this requirement to preparing
a corporate plan only.
3.64
Many submitters supported the reform provided it removed duplication and
inefficiencies; ensured the APVMA's resources were better dedicated to its core
business of providing high quality, rigorous and timely product approvals and
registrations; and provided transparency on operational activities.[73]
3.65
Both the GPA and Gene Ethics, however, opposed the amendment on the
grounds that it would reduce the transparency and accountability of the APVMA.[74]
Part 14—Other amendments
3.66
Under subsection 4(4) of the Amendment Act, the minister is required to
provide a report to parliament on the amendments made by that Act within 15
sitting days after 1 July 2019. Separately, the minister must also ensure, at
least every 10 years, that a review is made of the agvet chemical regulatory
framework under section 72 of the Administration Act.
3.67
Several submitters supported the amendment with regard to reporting
requirements, including the AMA, NFF and GRDC. These submitters agreed that
alignment would avoid duplication and administrative costs.[75]
3.68
However, the GPA opposed the amendment on the basis that the review of
two different measures may result in an incomplete assessment. It suggested
that:
The 10 year review of the AgVet chemical regulatory framework
under section 72 of the Administration Act should be conducted separately and
consider the broader strategic issues of future legislative reforms including
digital data, labels and systems, autonomy in application and use in
legislative label consideration and reforms...allowing consideration of new
science of chemical, biological and biochemical technology.[76]
3.69
The point was made in evidence that it is inefficient to conduct two
parallel reviews when the issues in section 4 of the Amendment Act would be
better aligned with the review required by section 72 of the Administration
Act. For this reason, the bill proposes to align the timing of the review
required under section 4 of the Amendment Act and that of the review required
under section 72 of the Administration Act. As noted by DAWR, this would
consolidate the timing of the two reviews and avoid the need for separate
reviews of agvet legislation.[77]
Committee view
3.70
Evidence to the committee indicated broad support for the provisions of
the bill and its intent to improve the effectiveness of the regulation of agvet
chemicals in Australia.
3.71
The committee notes that many of the concerns raised in relation the
bill arise from the fact that much of the detail as to how the amendments will
operate in practice will be specified in regulations. However, the committee
recognises that DAWR has committed to consulting with industry and other
stakeholders as it prepares the regulations. To inform this process, the
committee encourages DAWR to draw on the evidence provided throughout this
inquiry and during the consultation period.
3.72
The committee is satisfied the bill will improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of the national system for regulating agvet chemical products in
Australia. Therefore, the committee recommends that the bill be passed.
Recommendation 1
3.73
The committee recommends the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals
Legislation Amendment (Streamlining Regulation) Bill 2018 be passed.
Senator Barry O'Sullivan
Chair
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