Livestock owners and the NLIS

Property identification code (PIC)

Property identification codes (PICs) are given to a place where livestock are located or held. PICs make up part of the requirement for the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS). Animal movements are recorded against PICs on the NLIS database.

Anyone in Queensland who keeps the threshold number of livestock is a registerable biosecurity entity and must be registered with Biosecurity Queensland to be allocated a PIC.

NLIS requirements

There are specific NLIS requirements when moving different types of livestock in Queensland. All cattle, sheep, goats and pigs must be fitted with an approved NLIS device when moving between properties identified with a different PIC. All movements must be reported to the NLIS database within 48 hours of livestock arriving at the destination.

NLIS devices are permanent devices that must not be removed once fitted, and will remain for the lifetime of that animal. If a device is lost, the animal must be retagged with an approved NLIS device before moving off the property.

Ordering NLIS devices

To order an NLIS device you must first verify your PIC and obtain an official order form from Biosecurity Queensland. Complete the relevant sections and have a biosecurity inspector sign the order form.

Lodge the order form with your rural agent or directly with the manufacturer (specifying your serial number sequence if required).

Please allow sufficient time between ordering the tags and when they are required to be used.

Natural disasters and stray stock

In the event of livestock being displaced by a natural disaster or in the case of straying livestock, the NLIS can be used to assist their relocation.

Find out how the NLIS can help with moving cattle during floods and natural disasters and identifying stray cattle after a natural disaster.

Property of origin certification

Property of origin certificates certify that the properties from which animals or animal products originate are free of relevant reportable or notifiable diseases and pests. The provision of property of origin certificates by the Queensland Government is essential to facilitating international trade.

Find out more and apply for property of origin certification for the export of livestock, other commercial or exhibited animals or animal products.

Also consider...

• Watch a short video on the National Livestock Identification System.