Victorian livestock producers now have access to an improved online service they can use to order electronic National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) tags and update their property details.

Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Charles Milne, said one of the standout features of the improved online service is the ability for a producer to update their Property Identification Code (PIC) by simply clicking on parcels of land on a map.

“We need up-to-date property information to ensure that in the event of a disease or food safety incident we have the right details on record and can contact producers promptly.” Dr Milne said.

All owners of cattle, sheep and goats are required to have a PIC, which can be obtained online atwww.agriculture.vic.gov.au/nlis.

“Approximately 55,000 Victorians keep cattle, sheep or goats as commercial producers or for hobby and lifestyle reasons, the new online service can help all livestock producers keep their PIC details up to date.”

“Producers are required to register each parcel of land that they keep livestock on, including areas where stock are held on agistment, they can now do this by viewing their property on a map either when they order tags or by clicking on the ‘application for a PIC icon.”

“Victorian producers have access to the cheapest electronic NLIS approved tags for cattle, sheep and goats when ordered online at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/nlis.”

Producers need to ensure that their stock are correctly identified with an NLIS tag before they consign them to a saleyard, abattoir or to another property.

Electronic NLIS tags can also be valuable for on-farm herd/flock management purposes by simplifying the collection of production information such as weight gain/loss, reproductive performance and veterinary treatment history.

Electronic NLIS tags are mandatory for cattle and optional for sheep and goats.

“With lambing season underway, there’s never been a better time for Victorian sheep producers to purchase electronic tags, with more brands to choose from and less expense than ever before.” Dr Milne said.

“The new online service makes management of all NLIS information and products easier and cheaper.”

Source: Agriculture Victoria. For further information call the NLIS Helpline on 1800 678 779 during business hours or visitwww.agriculture.vic.gov.au/nlis.