As NSW transitions to mandatory tagging, individual electronic identification (eID) is now required for all sheep and goats born from 1 January 2025 before they leave the property of their birth. 

But take-up may not be moving as quickly as you might think.

While timing and cost are major factors NSW Farmers say governments have work to do to get their laws and support systems in sync around livestock identification ahead of the spring rush.

Electronic identification devices (eID devices) have a Radio Frequency Identifier (RFID) microchip with 16-digit RFID serial number. 

The RFID is also linked to an external visual code, the National Livestock Identification System identification (NLIS ID), that is the unique visual identifier for the tagged animal.

 NLIS ID and RFID serial number are both connected in the NLIS database to identify individual animals. 

A spokesperson from Ear Tags Warehouse in Narromine told the Western Plains News App,

"We have had lots of conversations with producers about the new eID tags and what will suit their requirements, what tags are available compared to what they were currently using for their Visual NLIS Tags and current applicators.

"We have been able to share our eID resources with them to help with their decisions, which shows the NLIS Approved eID Tags available for NSW Producers."

Image courtesy Ear Tags Warehouse, Narromine.

The NSW government has allocated $38 million and the Australian government has provided $7.2 million towards the transition to mandatory tagging. NILS-accredited white eID devices will have a discount of $0.76 per tag applied to all eligible purchases between 1 November 2024 and 31 October 2025, or until funds are exhausted.  

However, industry groups say more needs to be done to smooth the way.

President of NSW Farmers, Xavier Martin says that state and federal governments need to do more to support farmers throughout the mandatory tagging process.  

“While it was good to hear our calls for $1 tags heard back in May, it is critical that all sheep and goat producers in NSW are supported all the way through the transition to this government mandated system. 

“We need more funding for eID devices through consecutive federal budgets, and we need tag-free pathways for sheep that move from their property of birth direct to slaughter. 

“We also need state and territory governments to work together to harmonise their laws to deliver this system consistently, no matter where your livestock are, or where they’re headed next.” 

To find out more about the shift towards mandatory eID tagging you can visit this website.