In response to field pyrethroid failures against Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in early 1983, an insecticide resistance management (IRM) strategy was introduced for insect control in summer crops in eastern Australia. The aims of this strategy were to contain the pyrethroid resistance problem, to prevent re-selection of historical endosulfan resistance (both curative IRM) and to avoid any future problems with organophosphate/carbamate resistance (preventative IRM). An alternation strategy was adopted which was based on the rotation of unrelated chemical groups on a per generation basis, along with a strong recommendation for the use of ovicidal mixtures. These chemical countermeasures were then integrated with other non-chemical control methods (biological and cultural) into a workable integrated pest management programme. The restrictions were applied to all Helicoverpa armigera susceptible crops (including cereals, oilseeds, grain legumes, tomatoes, tobacco and cotton) and even to other co-incident pest species. From its inception, compliance with the voluntary strategy has been exceptional.