Bid to ease concern over new tag rules

Tasmanian Government has introduced mandatory electronic identification (eID) regulations for sheep, goats and surplus calves, marking a significant milestone for livestock producers. 

These measures align with the Australian Government’s National Agricultural Trace ability Strategy 2023–2033 (National Strategy), which seeks to enhance biosecurity, improve food traceability, and expand export opportunities for Australian agricultural products. 

Under the new compulsory regulations, all sheep and goats born on or after January 1, 2025, that leave farms must carry an eID tag. 

Additionally, surplus calves leaving the farm for processing will require eID tagging, making Tasmania’s red meat sector part of a fully traceable supply chain. 

Extensive discussions within the industry have highlighted the benefits of tracking animals, including better management of disease outbreaks, enhanced food safety, and improved market access. 

These regulations clearly improve biosecurity and market competitiveness, however, their introduction has sparked concern among producers regarding a flow-on increase in red tape and cost-to-farm pressures. 

In response, TasFarmers, in partnership with other industry stakeholders, has worked hard to advocate to the government for greater support for industry during this transition period. 

The Tasmanian Government has acknowledged these concerns by introducing several rebate schemes to support producers. 

This commitment has eased the financial burden and facilitated the smooth roll out of eID requirements across the sector. 

It also modified the state’s rollout of the plan after pro ducers raised concerns with the proposed need for all animals leaving a property to require an eID tag regardless of age (to only those born after January 1, 2025). 

One of the most significant challenges highlighted during the consultation was the cost of surplus calf tags. 

Previously priced at around 50c each, the new eID tags saw considerable price increases, creating anxiety among dairy farmers. 

Thanks to strong advocacy from TasFarmers and industry representatives, the Tasmanian Government announced a subsidy program in December 2024. 

This initiative rebates surplus calf tags at $4.50 per tag for the 12 months from January 1, 2025. 

Producers are encouraged to watch for further details on the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) website. 

With rising production costs and evolving regulations, collaborative efforts between government and industry are essential to ensure these man dates are both manageable and beneficial. 

For more information on the new eID regulations or avail able support, contact TasFarmers or visit the NRE website.