
The state government's $9.3 million package to help SA's sheep and farmed goat industry transition to a January 1, 2025 start date for mandatory eID has been welcomed by much of the sector.
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See subscription optionsPrimary Industries Minister Clare Scriven's promise of eID tags for less than $1 for the next two years has appeased some producers, but there are still some unconvinced, worried they will wear the extra tag costs long after rebates are gone.
The funding, which will also assist agents, saleyards, processors and feedlots buying equipment, is short of the WA government's commitment of $22.2m in its state budget for their eID transition. This is in addition to $3.4m announced earlier this year for tag rebates.
SA has about 10.8m sheep compared to WA's flock of 12.7m.
Ms Scriven, who signed up to a national eID roll out last year with the other state Ag Ministers for enhanced traceability, has stated the money - which will be put with the federal government contribution of about $3.5m - is for stage one focusing on newborn lambs and kids. Anything born after January 1 2025 must be tagged before it leaves the property.