Ground distribution contractor's licence

Ground distribution of herbicides may only be carried out in the course of the business of, at the direction of, or under the authority of either:

• a licensed ground distribution contractor holding a ground distribution contractor's licence
• or
• a licensed aerial distribution contractor holding an aerial distribution contractor licence.

Licensing for ground distribution contractors

A ground distribution contractor must be licensed under the Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1966.

A 'ground distribution contractor' is:

• any person or organisation carrying out the business of ground distribution of herbicides
• any person or organisation that directs or authorises ground equipment to be used to carry out ground distribution of herbicides.

You may need to meet the licence obligations as a commercial operator as well as a ground distribution contractor if you are self-employed as a ground distribution contractor and operate your own ground equipment to carry out ground distribution.

Apply for a ground distribution contractor's licence

There is no qualification or prerequisite required for a ground distribution contractor's licence.

This licence is issued for either a 1 or 3 year period, nominated by the applicant at time of application.

To apply once you are qualified, complete the online application for a licence and pay the prescribed fee:

This licence is issued for either a 1 or 3 year period, which you nominate when you apply.

Note: You cannot carry out aerial distribution unless you do so under the direction or authority of a licensed aerial distribution contractor. Any aerial distribution contractor must hold an aerial distribution contractor licence. Learn more about applying for an aerial distribution contractor licence.

Renewal of existing licences

If you have an email address recorded against your licence you will receive an automated notification 60 days prior to expiry date. However, you can also renew within the 60 day period using the online renewal form.

You will need your licence number to use the online renewal link. If you don't know your number you can find this by using the chemical application licence register.

If your licence has expired, you cannot renew your licence and will have to apply for a new licence.

Change of licence details

It is an obligation under the Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1966 that licensees are required to notify the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) of any changes within 21 days.

To update your licence details use the change request form. If you are renewing your licence, the renewal form also provides for changes to details.

If you cannot apply online, contact our Customer Service Centre on 13 25 23.

Record keeping requirements

One of the obligations of licensed ground distribution contractors is to make a record of all ground distributions carried out on their behalf and keep these for a minimum period of 2 years. These must be made available to authorised officers on request.

Read more about keeping records of herbicide distribution.