Pest management in summer pulses remains heavily reliant on insecticides. However a number of (relatively) soon to be released new generation insecticides promise better Integrated Pest Management (IPM) options for these crops. IPM challenges in summer pulses are varied and numerous. Ongoing challenges include the ever-present threat of silverleaf whitefly (SLW) (Bemisia tabaci type B) in soybeans, major outbreaks of the problematic bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) in recent wet summers, and spasmodic but severe damage inflicted by ‘lesser pests’ such as soybean moth (Aproaerema simplexella). New and previously unrecorded challenges include a significant etiella (Etiella behrii) outbreak this summer in vegetative soybeans on the Darling Downs. Confounding IPM issues include resistance management restrictions for newer pesticides registered for Helicoverpa armigera control, and declining resistance in H. armigera to carbamates. While the phased withdrawal of older insecticides such as dimethoate is seen by some as a pest management threat, new chemistry that is progressing to registration will in some instances offer superior control, be more IPM friendly (more selective) and/or be less toxic than existing products. Some of this new chemistry will complement existing products while others will replace older products as they are withdrawn. One of the challenges facing the adoption of new chemistry is their (sometimes) higher prices and greater selectivity (more than one product required where multiple pests are above threshold). On the other hand, new insecticides with greater selectivity will have long term IPM benefits (conservation of beneficial insects) and this, coupled with the smarter use of pest thresholds, will offset their higher price. This paper outlines opportunities for new insecticides and presents promising efficacy data against major pests including Helicoverpa sp., mirids (Creontiades sp.) and bean podborer. Because of commercial sensitivities, some not-yet registered insecticides are referred to by code name only.