A legacy of stewardship and sustainability
Agsafe's history of success is built on the unwavering support and commitment of the Australian agriculture community. Through the collective efforts of farmers, growers, and industry members, Agsafe's programs have thrived, driving positive change in sustainability and safety within the sector. Scroll down to explore our journey and see how we've grown alongside the industry.
1993
The founding of Agsafe
Agsafe was established in 1993 as an industry-led, non-profit organisation by the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Association (now CropLife Australia). The organisation was formed out of a commitment to product stewardship and the safe transport, storage, and handling of agricultural and veterinary (AgVet) chemicals. From the beginning, Agsafe’s goal has been to implement industry-leading product stewardship programs, promoting safety and best practices in the agricultural sector.
Launch of Member Services
In the same year, Agsafe launched its Member Services program. This initiative provided vital support to members, including AgVet chemical retailers, manufacturers, and logistics providers across Australia. Through this service, Agsafe has ensured industry-wide compliance with safety standards and regulations, becoming a trusted resource for the agricultural community.
1999
Introduction of drumMUSTER
In 1999, Agsafe introduced the drumMUSTER program, a landmark initiative aimed at collecting and recycling empty AgVet containers. Prior to drumMUSTER, farmers had few options for responsibly disposing of chemical containers, often resorting to environmentally harmful practices like burning, burying, or dumping. The introduction of drumMUSTER provided a much-needed solution, reducing waste and encouraging sustainable practices within agriculture.
First drumMUSTER collection
The first drumMUSTER collection was held in May 1999 in Gunnedah, NSW. During this inaugural event, 5,500 containers were dropped off by local farmers and growers for recycling. This marked the beginning of what would become one of Australia’s most successful agricultural recycling programs.
Expansion to Victoria
Following the initial success in NSW, drumMUSTER was launched in Victoria in October 1999, marking the first step in expanding the program nationwide. This milestone reflected the growing awareness and participation of farmers in environmentally responsible disposal methods.
2000
One year of drumMUSTER
By February 2000, just one year after its launch, the drumMUSTER program had signed up 129 councils to participate. This milestone demonstrated the program's rapid adoption and widespread recognition of the importance of recycling chemical containers within the agricultural industry.
Launch in Tasmania
In June 2000, drumMUSTER expanded further with its launch in Tasmania. This was a significant step in making the program accessible to farmers and growers across more regions, reinforcing the commitment to a national approach to AgVet container recycling.
First collections in Northern Territory
July 2000 marked the first drumMUSTER collections in the Northern Territory, continuing the program’s national expansion. With this milestone, drumMUSTER had officially reached every state and territory, offering a recycling solution to farmers and growers across Australia.
Manufacturer participation
By November 2000, 28 chemical manufacturers had signed up with drumMUSTER, underscoring the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices and the program’s success in creating a collaborative approach between manufacturers and farmers/growers for safe container disposal.
2001
1 million drums collected
In June 2001, drumMUSTER reached an important milestone by collecting and recycling 1 million chemical containers. This achievement highlighted the program’s growing impact on reducing environmental waste within the agricultural sector.
2002
3 million drums collected
By November 2002, drumMUSTER had collected and recycled 3 million chemical containers, further establishing the program as a key player in promoting sustainability in agriculture. The rapid growth of the program showcased the increasing awareness and participation from farmers and stakeholders.
2003
ChemClear begins
To complement the success of drumMUSTER, Agsafe launched ChemClear in 2003, a program designed to provide a safe and environmentally sound disposal method for unwanted or obsolete AgVet chemicals. ChemClear has played a critical role in reducing chemical hazards and ensuring responsible chemical management.
2007
Establishment of the Agsafe Board
In 2007, Agsafe formalised its leadership structures by establishing the Agsafe Board. The board has been instrumental in overseeing the organisation’s stewardship programs, including drumMUSTER and ChemClear, and guiding their growth.
10 million drums collected
In August 2007, drumMUSTER reached the remarkable milestone of 10 million containers collected and recycled. This achievement solidified the program’s legacy as a nationwide leader in agricultural recycling and waste management.
2012
20 million drums collected
By September 2012, the drumMUSTER program had collected and recycled 20 million chemical containers. This milestone reflected over a decade of commitment to environmental stewardship and waste reduction in Australian agriculture.
2019
Launch of AgBytes
In 2019, Agsafe launched AgBytes, concise educational resources designed to provide quick, relevant insights into agricultural safety, chemical management, and environmental sustainability. These content pieces aim to inform and guide farmers, industry stakeholders, and other audiences on best practices for handling agricultural chemicals, waste disposal, and safe farm operations. AgBytes typically cover topics like chemical safety, legislation, and proper disposal methods, helping Agsafe promote responsible agricultural practices across the sector.
2021
Online store launch
In 2021, Agsafe launched its online store, providing members with easy access to safety materials, training resources, and compliance products to support the safe handling, transport, storage and disposal of AgVet chemicals.
2022
AgVet Chemical Masterclass
In November 2022, Agsafe introduced the AgVet Chemical Masterclass, an advanced training initiative designed to improve industry expertise on AgVet chemical safety, regulatory compliance, and best practices.
2024
Evolution of drumMUSTER
In 2024, drumMUSTER evolved to further its sustainability impact by recycling collected chemical drums back into new chemical drums, enhancing the circular economy within the agricultural sector.
New look for Agsafe
Agsafe underwent a rebrand, reflecting its evolution and ongoing commitment to advancing safety and sustainability in the agricultural sector. The refreshed brand underscores Agsafe's leadership in product stewardship and environmental responsibility across Australia
2025
Launch of bagMUSTER
At the start of 2025, Agsafe launched bagMUSTER, an industry-led, not-for-profit program dedicated to tackling single-use plastic bag waste in Australian agriculture. bagMUSTER provides a structured and sustainable approach to collecting and recycling agricultural plastic bags, specifically single-use polypropylene (PP) bags commonly used for fertilisers, seeds, grain, stock feed, and pet food. Importantly, 100% of the collected bags are responsibly recycled within Australia.