NLIS ID Tags for Sheep & Goats

In 2004, the Primary Industries Ministerial Council (PIMC) decided to introduce an improved national system for the traceability of sheep and goats, which is now called the NLIS - National Livestock Identification System (Sheep and Goats). It was previously known as the National Flock Identification Scheme.

The implementation of NLIS (Sheep and Goats) commenced on 1 January 2006. Lambs and farmed goats born after 1 January 2006 are now required to be identified with an eartag printed with the PIC of the property prior to moving off the property of birth.

There are exemptions to this requirement, and it is important to contact the relevant State Department for details of regulations (e.g. Queensland does not require farmed goats to be tagged, and there are certain exemptions for animals consigned direct from property of birth to slaughter on an over the hooks basis).

From 1 January 2009, all sheep and farmed goats, irrespective of the date of birth, will require identification with an approved NLIS ID tag prior to movement (2007 in Queensland).

Industry and government will monitor the effectiveness of the system, with a view to minimizing cost while improving traceability. The reviews in 2007 and 2008 and possible technology developments may influence the options available to industry for the longer term. Each State and Territory is responsible for the implementation of NLIS (Sheep and Goats) in its jurisdiction.

More information can be found on the Meat and Livestock (MLA) website
http://www.mla.com.au