What’s happening?
The National Biosecurity Committee’s (NBC) proposal, approved by all agricultural ministers on 9 September 2022, introduces a major overhaul of livestock traceability in Australia.
From 1 January 2025, all sheep and goats born in Australia must be tagged with an electronic identification (eID) Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) device.
This measure aims to modernise the tracking of livestock and strengthen biosecurity protocols nationwide.
Why it Matters?
The transition to eID represents a critical advancement in Australia’s livestock industry, providing more precise and rapid animal tracing capabilities.
This will significantly enhance biosecurity, enabling faster responses to emergency animal disease outbreaks or chemical residue incidents. Animal traceback, which currently takes days, can now be accomplished within minutes, thanks to eID technology.
Animal Health Australia (AHA) emphasises, “This new system is aimed at elevating Australia’s traceability and biosecurity to a new level.
While costs are associated with this transition, these investments are steppingstones towards a more secure and efficient future for Australia’s livestock industries.”
Local Impact
In Queensland, the implementation of eID will occur in two phases:
- From 1 January 2025, sheep and goats born after this date must have an eID device before leaving their property of birth.
- By 1 January 2027, all other sheep and goats leaving any property must have an eID device.
The Queensland Traceability Advisory Group (QTAG), comprising industry and government representatives, is spearheading efforts to ensure a smooth rollout.
By the Numbers:
- $20.4 million has been allocated in the 2022-2023 budget to assist farmers in adopting eID.
- $26.6 million has been committed for database upgrades to enhance traceability capabilities.
- eID technology has been in use for cattle since 2005 and for sheep and goats in Victoria since 2017.
Zoom In
For producers, transitioning to eID will require purchasing eID devices, applicators, and data transfer equipment.
Saleyards and processors will need to invest in eID readers and infrastructure modifications to comply with the new system.
Specific provisions have also been made for harvested rangeland goats, which can move without an eID device under strict conditions, including direct transport to abattoirs or registered depots for no longer than 10 days.
Zoom Out
Australia’s national approach ensures consistency across states.
Victoria led the charge by mandating eID for sheep and goats in 2016, while other states, including New South Wales, Western Australia, and South Australia, are actively working on their implementation plans.
The federal government has allocated additional resources to upgrade the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) database and has established a Sheep and Goat Traceability Task Force to harmonise systems across jurisdictions.
What to Look For Next?
Producers should prepare by acquiring eID devices and ensuring infrastructure upgrades are in place starting 1 January 2025
Animal Health Australia has pledged ongoing support: “We remain committed to providing producers with practical advice and important updates to help them prepare for the changes ahead.”
Producers are encouraged to explore financial assistance programs, including rebates for eligible eID items, and engage with resources like Biosecurity Queensland to navigate the transition effectively.
