Livestock & fibre saleyard auctions can continue without restriction

The State’s livestock and fibre auctions are open for business without restriction, with Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall reassuring potential buyers and sellers across the state that it is business as usual when it comes to sales as part of the agricultural supply chain.

Mr Marshall said auctions for the supply of food, livestock or fibre were exempt under the NSW Government’s COVID-19 restrictions and have been permitted to operate as normal throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, as long as social distancing requirements are adhered to.

“From the outset I have been very clear that food and fibre producers as well as businesses along our supply chains should proceed as business as usual, while adhering to social distancing,” Mr Marshall said.

“I have worked hard to ensure that livestock and fibre sales across the state are not impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, including gathering limits, as they are a critical part of our supply chains.

“Despite Government exemptions, many individual saleyards have sought to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by implementing specific measures, such as limiting access and keeping records of attendees.

“I am appealing to the State’s saleyard operators to exercise common sense when conducting auctions and sales to ensure all vendors and buyers get a fair go.

“The Department of Primary Industries has established a dedicated COVID-19 concierge service, which is available to provide advice to industry, including saleyard operators, about how to navigate these challenging times.”

The concierge service can be accessed at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

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