Parkinson's Australia is still leading advocacy push for the APVMA to #BanParaquat

Hi there,

Sign the petition and join nearly 20,000 voices to ban the use of paraquat in Australia!

Don’t be fooled, my friends. The announcement from Syngenta to cease paraquat production does not mean that our fight to ban this chemical is over. ~Olivia Nassaris, CEO Parkinson’s Australia

Syngenta’s decision to cease production cited significant competition from generic producers, “which has eroded Syngenta’s competitiveness in the production of this herbicide.” They don’t care about the harm that it causes; they care that there is a decreased ROI for the manufacturing plant.

Syngenta’s announcement triggered waves of social media posts worldwide, claiming this was a huge win for the Parkinson’s community and that the #BanParaquat campaign was over. I regret to say that it is not!

This is not the end of Paraquat; 750 other companies are registered to sell this chemical. The risk to the public is still present.

Paraquat, also under other product names, will continue to be used by farmers. They will still be in danger of increasing their risk of developing Parkinson’s. The only way that we will see a ban on the use of the chemical is through decisions by the Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) in Australia and by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States, both delayed in light of updated research from the US EPA finding out about paraquat’s potential to volatilise and enter the atmosphere.

The final regulatory decision is now expected in mid-2026. We urge the APVMA to let the science, not industry lobbying, guide that decision. A ban on the use of paraquat produced by Syngenta or any other company is the only way that farmers, council workers and golf course greenskeepers are safe.

Digital Health Tools Webinars

Join David as he tells you how digital health tools have made his Parkinson's journey easier...

Discover how Australian Digital Health tools can make managing Parkinson’s easier with a practical online session exploring how to use tools like My Health Record and electronic prescriptions to stay on top of things.

David will share real-life insights and tips — from managing prescriptions at the pharmacy to accessing your health history in one secure place.

Four sessions are available over the next two weeks — choose the time and date that suits you! Join via Zoom link provided with registration. Send to your carer or loved one, or join the session together.

Mon 30th March: 6pm ACDT / 6:30pm AEDT
Thurs 2nd April: 12pm ACDT / 12:30pm AEDT
Tues 7th April: 6pm ACST / 6:30pm AEST
Thurs 9th April: 12pm/ 12:30pm AEST

We look forward to seeing you online!

Sign up link for Digital Health tools sessions

Featured fundraiser:

Jack's Ultra Backyard

"I am attempting to run 160km in 24 hours for my mum, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease six years ago. This incurable disease impacts my mum’s daily life- a life she so richly deserves to live to the fullest. I am raising money towards a cure for this horrible disease. Please donate - every little bit counts."

To support Jack, go HERE

Support Jack

WIN News 03 Mar 2026 17:47, Parkinson's Australia RACGP Open Letter

Watch the video

Longer GP Consults Advocacy

We joined 20 peak patient bodies and the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) in Parliament House to tell Australia’s leaders that patients need more affordable care and more time with their family doctors. RACGP sent an open letter to Parliament to highlight that this funding cannot wait.

Properly funding longer consultations is vital for patients with chronic disease, mental health concerns, and complex health needs. It also improves diagnosis times, makes care more affordable, and reduces pressure on hospitals.

Yours in advocacy & change,

Olivia & the Parkinson's Australia Team