All sheep will need to be electronically tagged by 2027. Photo: NSW DPIRD.
Just under 15,000 sheep and lambs have been electronically tagged (eID) at the Wagga Wagga Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC), as the state continues its transition to electronic identification for livestock.
According to a new law, sheep and farmed goats born on or after 1 January 2025 must be identified with an eID tag before leaving their property of birth. This reform is aimed at ensuring the animals can be easily traced in the case of a disease outbreak or food safety concerns.
Of the 77,127 sheep and lambs yarded at the sale, 18.8 per cent were identified with eID devices.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said this was an “impressively high figure” as only a small proportion were born after New Year’s Day.
“The process was carried out efficiently, with minimal errors and no delays, demonstrating the professionalism and preparedness of Wagga’s stock and station agents,” a spokesperson said.
DPIRD Director Sheep & Goat Traceability Kiowa Fenner said Wagga had demonstrated what could be achieved through strong industry collaboration and commitment.
“The agents at Wagga LMC have shown exceptional leadership and professionalism in embracing the eID system, not just in meeting expectations, but exceeding them,” Ms Fenner said.
“Their success demonstrates the strength of partnerships between government and industry and reinforces our shared goal of building a modern, resilient traceability system for the future.
“Wagga is the largest saleyard in the Southern Hemisphere, and their agents have set a high benchmark for eID implementation across the state.”
The scanning was completed entirely by local agents without direct support from NSW DPIRD, Local Land Services (LLS) or software providers on the day.
DPIRD said this highlighted the agents’ dedication and competence following months of preparation and training.
Ms Fenner said this level of performance spoke to the agents’ willingness to embrace the new system and their investment in getting it right.
“DPIRD’s Sheep and Goat eID team continues to work closely with saleyards, agents and producers to support the staged implementation of electronic identification across NSW, ensuring a smooth transition for the industry at every stage.”
A DPRID spokesperson said: “The positive scanning results from the recent Wagga sale are an encouraging sign of industry preparedness ahead of the next major eID implementation milestone in NSW. From 1 January 2027, all sheep and goats must have an electronic identification (eID) device prior to movement, and these early outcomes demonstrate strong progress toward that goal.”
For further information on the rollout of eID for sheep and goats in NSW, including upcoming deadlines and resources, visit the NSW DPIRD website.
