Each State and Territory in Australia has different laws surrounding cattle branding, as detailed below.

Australian Capital Territory: Branding is not compulsory. The brand must be registered if owner wishes to brand.

New South Wales: Branding is not compulsory. The brand must be registered with the Livestock Health and Pest Authority. (Previously the Rural Lands Protection Board or RLPB) if owner wishes to use the brand.

Northern Territory: Branding is compulsory if cattle move off the property or are sold. It is not required for cattle under 8 months of age. The brand is registered to the owner of the cattle and to his/her nominated property.

Queensland: All cattle 100 kg live weight and over must be branded before sale. The brand must be registered.

Victoria: Branding is not encouraged. There is no official brands register. Use of a firebrand leaves the owner open to prosecution on the basis that non painful alternative methods are available.

South Australia: Branding is not compulsory but the brand must be registered if used.

Tasmania: Branding is not compulsory but the brand must be registered if used.

Western Australia: All cattle must be branded or earmarked. All owners must register a brand with specific regional requirements:

• South West Land Division – cattle must be branded or earmarked before 6 months of age or before being moved off the property, whichever is first
• Pastoral Areas – cattle must be branded or earmarked before 18 months of age or before being moved off the property, whichever occurs first. Exemptions apply to calves less than 2 weeks old or less than 6 months if still with their mothers provided the conditions of the way-bill for movement are met.

Source: Cattle Standards and Guidelines Writing Group

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