22 July 2024
Key items of discussion and outcomes included:
- National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) Sheep and Goat Standards (June 2024)
- Members noted the NLIS Sheep and Goat Standards were signed off by SAFEMEAT Partners in June 2024.
- Members highlighted the importance of communicating the updated NLIS Standards to industry.
- Livestock Regulations review
- Members noted amendments to the Livestock Regulations are required, with a key focus on minimum essential requirements to support South Australia’s transition to eID in accordance with the announced tagging and scanning dates.
- PIRSA recognises that there will be a period of transition for producers and period of practice change across the supply chain. This will be supported by education and technical extension.
- Essential Equipment and Infrastructure Rebate (Saleyards)
- Saleyards expressed concerns regarding the outcomes of their Needs Analysis independent technical assessment. They indicated delays in resolution may impact their ability to meet a 1 July 2025 timeframe for mandatory scanning.
- PIRSA is convening a meeting with the three saleyards (Dublin, Mount Gambier and Naracoorte) and respective Councils to discuss their concerns.
- Tagging of ewes
- Members outlined that some producers will be keeping ewes beyond 5 years and this will result in some double tagging. This will create increased costs even though the initial tagging was compliant.
- It was noted that producers keeping ewes beyond 2027, can consider tagging now, and tagging ewes when they are younger will be easier. PIRSA agreed to place the tagging of ewes on the issues register.