Moving cattle

Moving cattle within SA

Any cattle movement between South Australian properties with different Property Identification Codes (PIC) is called a property to property transfer. These include:

• moving cattle between any 2 properties with different PIC codes
• purchasing cattle privately
• moving cattle to and from lease or agistment properties.

Property to property transfers must be reported to the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) database by the owner of the cattle at the destination property within 2 working days.

Moving cattle and buffalo requires:

• updating the NLIS database.
• movement documentation.

Updating the NLIS database

1. Update the database online – go to the NLIS website for account set-up and transfer instructions. All transfers require:
   • the individual animal identification number
   • consignment and destination PICs
   • NVD serial number
   • movement date.
2. Update by a third party online – all third parties transferring cattle must have an NLIS account and be authorised by you. Go to the NLIS website for a third party authorisation form (Form E).
3. Complete ‘Form A’ livestock movement form – each form can be used to transfer 20 cattle (fees apply). Request a form by phoning the NLIS Database Helpdesk: 1300 654 743.

Movement documentation

All cattle and buffalo property to property transfers must include either of the following documents:

• National Vendor Declaration – the most commonly used form. Use the National Vendor Declaration when cattle movement involves a change of ownership. Register and get forms from Meat and Livestock Australia or phone 1800 683 111.
• Cattle and Buffalo Alternative Movement Waybill – these can be used for non-transaction movements. Download the Alternative Cattle and Buffalo Movement Waybill ( PDF 253.5 KB DOC 83.5 KB ).

Notifiable diseases

Livestock or livestock products that are affected, or suspected of being affected with a notifiable disease, must not be brought into or moved within the state, without approval of the Chief Inspector of Stock.

Many diseases endemic to Australia are listed as notifiable diseases, including:

• Enzootic bovine leucosis
• Ephemeral fever
• Rhipicephalus australis (cattle tick).

The owner, and any person responsible for the animals or products being moved, must ensure that all movement conditions are met. Failure to do so may incur penalties or quarantine restrictions.