Biotechnology risk assessment in Australia: A molecular perspective

Biotechnology, especially the development of genetically modified crops, offers many potential economic, nutritional and environmental benefits, but equally many potential hazards and risks. Approval procedures for the release of genetically modified organisms are established under the Gene Technology Act 2000 (Cth). This article examines the methodology used to identify potential molecular risks associated with the use of biotechnology in food crop production. Evidence is presented which demonstrates the potential for molecular hazards to occur and brings into question the ability of risk assessment methods to identify these hazards. Despite appropriate regulations being in place, it appears that current hazard analysis procedures are not of sufficient sensitivity to ensure adequate protection for the Australian people and environment.