22/11/05
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance today said the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) was having a positive impact on the security of Western Australia livestock and was helping protect important export markets.
Mr Chance welcomed recent Australian Government funding for the NLIS for cattle, saying it would help the WA NLIS Working Group further implement the scheme in WA.
“The importance attached by the WA Government to the NLIS has been demonstrated with an investment of almost $1.5million, and the response from producers so far has been very encouraging,” he said.
“This investment of $954,440 from the Commonwealth will enhance the implementation of NLIS in WA.
“The NLIS will also be an invaluable tool if we ever have to deal with a national pest or disease emergency."
The NLIS is a complementary set of identification and movement requirements that provide traceability for the whole life of an animal through approved electronic devices and tags.
In WA the money will be used to help producers capitalise on the management and production benefits of NLIS on farms; provide further training of livestock agents and producers; finalise industry infrastructure and establish a regional network of third party providers to ensure paddock-to-paddock sales and database transfers are logged accurately.
Mr Chance said WA was the first State to submit a detailed business proposal and secure national funding.
The activities detailed in the proposal will build on the already strong foundation of extension, infrastructure assistance and training support.
“The Gallop Government is ensuring regional WA receives its fair share,” Mr Chance said.
Minister's office: 9213 6700
