The Andrews Labor Government has approved another round of grants worth more than $400,000 to help sheep and goat producers and the supply chain transition to the electronic identification traceability scheme.
It takes the total amount of approved grants to more than $1.2 million.
Sixty-one farmers will benefit in this round of grants, reducing the cost of electronic identification equipment such as readers and applicators.
The Labor Government’s Transition Package provides for cost-neutral tags at 35 cents to farmers in 2017, meaning nearly all Victorian sheep and goat producers receive benefits in the funding package.
With new rules that came into effect from 1 January 2017, all newborn sheep and goats in Victoria now require an electronic NLIS (Sheep) tag before they leave their property of birth.
Farmers who are keen to embrace additional on-farm benefits are encouraged to apply for grants to purchase optional equipment like readers and purpose built weighing systems.
To date, close to 100 applications from farmers have been approved.
Additional workshops to clearly inform farmers about the new electronic identification system are being held almost every day throughout February.
Register at or phone 136 186 for more information.
Application forms for equipment grants are available at or by calling 1800 678 779 during business hours.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“We’re making sure livestock producers, saleyards and abattoirs are ready for this change that will help Victoria succeed on the world stage and strengthen our biosecurity system.”
“No one needs to buy new gear other than the tags and a reader, but it’s great to see so many farmers who want to do more.”
“There is further funding available and I really encourage anyone who wants to embrace this new technology to make an application and attend a workshop.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020