- Electronic identification (eID) infrastructure grants to assist smaller supply chain operators to integrate scanning technology
- Tag Incentive Payment scheme offering discounted eID tags extended to support sheep and goat producers
- National eID system for sheep and goats will strengthen biosecurity
A second round of Cook Government funding to help sheep and goat supply chain operators transition to the new mandatory national electronic identification (eID) system is now open.
This round of the Infrastructure Grants Program is aimed at smaller feedlots, seasonal operators, community organisations and grower groups to support the integration of eID scanning equipment and technology into their operations.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available towards the purchase of hand-held wands, as well as sheep and goat eID readers and scanners.
This builds on the previous round of funding that targeted larger industry operators, including saleyards, abattoirs, registered feedlots, export depots and livestock agents.
The program is part of the Cook Government’s $25.6 million commitment to support the roll out of the new national mandatory system to enhance biosecurity traceability.
It also includes the Tag Incentive Payment Scheme, which provides a 75 cent discount per eID tag – now extended to 31 December 2024 for accredited black tags.
The Western Australian eID system will come into full operation by 1 July 2026, when all sheep and goats will be required to be eID tagged before leaving the property and scanned at the point of arrival.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is administering the programs, working alongside the WA Sheep and Goat Advisory Group to support the transition.
For more information about the Infrastructure Grants Program and to make a grant application visit: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/livestock-movement-identifciation/electronic-identification-sheep-and-goats
Applications close Friday, 17 May 2024.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
“The adoption of the new mandatory national electronic identification system is vital to protect WA’s livestock industries from increasing biosecurity threats.
“The Cook Government has committed $25.6 million dollars to help farmers integrate the cutting-edge traceability technology.
“These infrastructure grants will enable a smooth transition to the new eID system well before it comes into full operation across Australia.”
