There is considerable argument about how far this may occur and whether it will be significant. Organic producers are particularly concerned about this. These potential industry costs must be taken into account when considering the likely usefulness of GM crops in the Australian agricultural system. Many trials are under way to attempt to assess the usefulness of GMOs and any attendant problems with their production and use. These controls are designed to contain the new genetic material at an appropriately stringent level until it has been properly and fully evaluated.
Extensive monitoring is incorporated at every step in the trials.
No material under trial is released for human consumption. After appropriate laboratory and glasshouse trials, GMAC prepares a public release summary of relevant information about each GMO which is being considered for field trials, and later for general release. This document specifies the field trial segregation and monitoring requirements. Only after considering feedback on the public release document does GMAC approve any general release.