About the consultation
Consultation on the proposed approach to making changes to the Gene Technology Regulations 2001 was open between 5 January and 1 May 2026. The submissions received have helped inform considerations for drafting of the Gene Technology Amendment Regulations.
The proposed changes aim to ensure the National Gene Technology Scheme reflects current best-practice and is appropriately flexible. The proposed amendments to the regulations would regulate dealings with gene technology according to the level of risk posed, while making the scheme more adaptable to future developments and challenges.
Information webinar
On 6 February 2026 we hosted an information session to provide an overview of the key proposed changes to the Gene Technology Regulations.
View the presentation slides from the information session.
Next steps
The following steps are still required to finalise the legislative reforms:
Amendment Bill
- Finalisation of drafting of the Gene Technology Amendment Bill (Amendment Bill)
- Gene Technology Standing Committee and Gene Technology Ministers’ Meeting (GTMM) endorsement of the final Amendment Bill for introduction into the Commonwealth Parliament
- Introduction of the Amendment Bill into the Commonwealth Parliament (subject to government priority and parliamentary processes).
Amendment regulations
- Drafting of the amendments to the GT Regulations (Amendment Regulations) following consultation
- Finalisation of the Amendment Regulations for the Federal Executive Council.
Statutory rules
- Statutory rules to be made by the Gene Technology Regulator in accordance with the amended legislation.
Timing of these steps is subject to approvals by the GTMM and Commonwealth Parliamentary processes.
More information
Learn more about Australia’s gene technology legislation.