DEPI is investigating a number of operators suspected of spraying agricultural chemicals as a business operation without holding a commercial operators licence issued by the department.

DEPI senior chemical standards officer Steven Field confirmed unlicenced contractors had operated in the region around Ballarat in the past and some unlicenced operators may still be operating here.

He said no charges had been laid to date, but the investigation was continuing.

“It’s hard to know how many (unlicenced contractors) are operating at present,” Mr Field said.

“We rely on the public to report them or fellow contractors.

“We encourage any reports. If someone suspects there are unlicenced operators they can get in touch with us and we’ll follow it up.”

It is illegal to conduct a business using agricultural chemicals without a commercial operators licence.

This applies to all agricultural and horticultural uses: including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and vermin control such as rodent fumigation.

“Commercial operators licence holders must complete appropriate training before being issued a licence, to ensure they can safely handle, store and use agricultural chemicals,” Mr Field said. 

“This in turn minimises the risk of problems occurring, such as spray drift or unacceptable residues in produce.”

Landholders are also encouraged to ask spray contractors to produce their licence before they start work.

“If landholders do not ensure that contractors applying agricultural chemicals to their property are properly licensed, then they may be liable for the same offence as the contractor themselves,” Mr Field said. “The important thing with legislation is it is illegal as operate for free or reward if you don’t have the licence.

“We are not intending to stop someone helping out their neighbour. They just can’t be paid or receive a reward.”

Further information on agricultural chemical use and licensing, www.depi.vic.gov.au/chemicaluse or contact DEPI on 136 186.