The amendments follow feedback from the WA Sheep and Goat Advisory Group and producers to support the introduction of eID scanning infrastructure and in response to difficult seasonal conditions.
Sheep and goats born after 1 January 2025 will still require an eID tag before leaving the property or before they reach six months of age.
Under the new arrangements, sheep and goats born before 1 January 2025 will require an eID tag when departing a property or facility, such as a feedlot, from 1 July 2026.
Saleyards and abattoirs will be required to scan any eID tagged sheep and goats from 1 July 2025.
All properties or facilities receiving sheep or goats, other than saleyards and abattoirs, will be required to scan all eID tags from 1 July 2026.
The WA 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.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Michelle Rodan said the extension would better support the supply chain to install and test the system.
“These small changes will enable sheep and goat producers, as well as supply chain operators, to better prepare for the introduction of the new national system,” Dr Rodan said.
“It gives some extra time for full implementation, especially when producers are experiencing difficult seasonal operating conditions.
“Once implemented, eID in sheep and goats will boost our capacity to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency animal disease or food safety incident and protect our valuable trade relationships and export markets.”
For more information on the changes and details about the Tag Incentive Payment visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/EID-sheep-and-goats.
