Help shape the transition to tags

September is the time to have your say and help shape the introduction of compulsory electronic identification for sheep and goats in Victoria.

From January 1 2017 all sheep and goats born in Victoria will require an electronic identification tag, linked to the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), before being dispatched to a saleyard, abattoir or another property.

Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford said there would be a consultation period on both the standards, which will govern how electronic tags are used, and the composition of the transition package, that will help support the introduction.

Agriculture Victoria’s Director of Market Access, Warren Straw, said the aim of the consultation was to ensure those affected by this change have the opportunity to shape how it will work and what support will be available.

“It’s important the phasing in of new measures works well across the supply chain and the businesses involved are best placed to provide feedback,” Mr Straw said.

“Funding will be available to smooth the transition. So if you are in the sheep and goats industry, please tell us where you think the government can best help out.”

“In addition to producers, we are keen to hear from farming groups, industry associations, stock agents, saleyards, abattoirs and service providers.”

Following the confirmation of the standards, Agriculture Victoria will coordinate information sessions and workshops to help farmers understand the system and, where appropriate, to use it to enhance on-farm decisions.

This consultation will run until September 30, 2016.

Feedback can be provided via the Agriculture Victoria website.

There also will be face to face consultation with peak industry bodies and other industry organisations.

“To obtain a copy of the draft electronic NLIS sheep and goat standards, the transition package details and view frequently asked questions, visit

www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/she epEID.