eID for Sheep & Goats

Electronic Identification (eID) tags are a crucial component of Australia’s National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), facilitating the individual identification and traceability of sheep and goats. These tags contain a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) microchip with a distinctive 16-digit internal serial number, allowing for electronic recording and tracking of animals.

Tags: These house the RFID microchip and display a visually readable NLIS number, including the Property Identification Code (PIC).
Readers: Devices that energise the RFID tag and receive identification information.
Data Collectors: Store identification information.
Data Processors: Utilise information and provide data outputs.

An NLIS electronic tag comprises two identifiers:
– Visual identification (NLIS ID) on the tag’s exterior, including the 8-character PIC, manufacturer code, device type, year of supply, and serial number.
– RFID number, the internal transponder number.

NLIS tags are identified by manufacturer codes and the year of supply. For example, in 2024, the code “V” represents the year of manufacture.

Breeder Tags: Used for animals on their property of birth, available in various colours.
Post Breeder Tags: For animals that have moved from their property of birth, typically pink in colour.

NLIS tags hold either conditional or full accreditation with Integrity Systems. Laser printing is the recommended print type, with various layouts allowing for additional information such as Property Name or Sequential Number range.

Allflex
Enduro Tags
Leader Products
Shearwell
Ztags

Most tags are self-piercing wrap-around types suitable for both sheep and goats. However, Enduro tags are specifically for sheep, and Allflex offers a Tamperproof eID Tag variant with a 2 piece tag.

The implementation of eID in sheep and goats aims to enhance traceability and biosecurity within the livestock industry by:
– Providing more accurate and timely traceability.
– Improving authorities’ ability to respond to disease outbreaks or food safety concerns.
– Minimising the impact on animals and producers during emergency disease situations.
– Reducing export market restrictions following disease or residue incidents.

eID enhances traceability by:
– Enabling individual identification for precise tracking.
– Facilitating accurate record-keeping via the NLIS database.
– Expedient retrieval of information during emergencies.
– Enhancing supply chain transparency and consumer confidence in livestock origin and movement data.
eID NLIS Approved tags play a vital role in bolstering Australia’s livestock traceability systems, safeguarding biosecurity, and ensuring access to export markets.
Visit the eID information page for more details and state specific information.