An $11.66 million investment is being made to help Tasmanian sheep and goat producers transition to a new electronic identification system by 1 January 2025.
Tasmanian livestock producers will receive financial support to implement mandatory electronic identification for sheep and goats, including infrastructure development and discounts on tags.
Support will include rebates for eID scanning infrastructure and equipment, as well as handheld scanning devices for eligible businesses.
In addition, producers will be eligible for rebates per eID tag and leg band to help financially facilitate the transition process.
The Minister for Primary Industries and Water emphasises the importance of traceability for biosecurity and product integrity, highlighting the importance of eIDs in safeguarding Tasmania's agricultural industry.
The Government's commitment to industry support and collaboration ensures effective monitoring and traceability, which is essential to maintain market access advantages and consumer confidence.
Industry feedback mechanisms, including advisory groups, facilitate a collaborative approach to the implementation of the electronic identification system.
Enhancing the capabilities of the meat industry is consistent with the Government's objective to sustainably increase the farm-gate value of Tasmanian agriculture.