ChemClear helps the AgVet industry dispose of unwanted chemicals

Aug. 6, 2025 | 5 Min read
Unwanted chemicals sitting in storage on farms can be a serious safety and environmental risk. Over time, labels fade, containers degrade, and products may no longer be approved for use.

Unwanted chemicals sitting in storage on farms can be a serious safety and environmental risk. Over time, labels fade, containers degrade, and products may no longer be approved for use.

That’s where ChemClear comes in—a national stewardship program developed to help Australian farmers safely dispose of agricultural and veterinary chemicals.

Why ChemClear was created

Established as part of Australia’s commitment to responsible chemical management, ChemClear offers an environmentally sound pathway to remove obsolete or unwanted AgVet chemicals from farms. The program supports safety on-farm, protects waterways and soil, and ensures compliance with chemical regulations.

How the program works

Chemicals registered with ChemClear are collected during scheduled collection runs, which take place in different states throughout the year. Collections are currently planned for:

  • Queensland in October 2025 (registration deadline 12 September 2025)
  • Western Australia in January 2026
  • South Australia in March 2026 (registration deadlines for WA and SA will be announced soon)

Producers and businesses are encouraged to register their unwanted chemicals well before the cut-off to ensure they don’t miss out.

Understanding Group 1 and Group 2 chemicals

Group 1 chemicals are eligible for free collection if they:

  • Are in original containers with intact labels
  • Were manufactured by participating drumMUSTER companies
  • Are registered or deregistered within the last two years
  • Are within two years of the expiration date
  • Are not held as unwanted inventory by distributors or AgVet stores

Group 2 chemicals incur a disposal fee and include those that are:

  • Unregistered for more than two years
  • Unlabelled or of unknown origin
  • Expired by more than two years
  • Mixed chemicals
  • Manufactured by non-participating drumMUSTER companies

A disposal quote will be provided for Group 2 chemicals prior to collection.

This classification helps ensure that manufacturers take responsibility for products they bring to market, while still offering a solution for older or unknown stock.

How to register

Registering your chemicals is simple and essential for inclusion in a collection round.

  1. Take an inventory: Record the product name, manufacturer, container size, remaining quantity, and condition of each chemical.
  2. Register: Visit www.agsafe.org.au and complete the online form.
  3. Receive confirmation: You’ll be given a unique reference number for each registered chemical.
  4. Storage stickers: Around a month later, ChemClear will mail you stickers to label your stored chemicals.
  5. Store chemicals safely: Keep chemicals in a secure, clearly labelled area, away from unauthorised access until collection day.
  6. Collection notification: You’ll be contacted with the date, time, and location of the collection event once scheduled.

Why it matters

Removing obsolete chemicals reduces on-farm risks, meets compliance requirements, and protects the land for future generations. By participating in ChemClear, you’re making a positive contribution to a safer and more sustainable agricultural industry.

Don’t wait—register your chemicals today and take the first step toward clearing your shed safely and responsibly.

Categories Agsafe

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