Policy for animal identification in laboratory test reports

Attention

• All stakeholders

Purpose

To advise stakeholders that the department has published a new policy for Livestock identification requirements in laboratory test reports to support the Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock version 3.3 (ASEL).

Key points

• In accordance with ASEL 3.3 standards 1.1.3 (e) and 6.1.3 (e), laboratory test reports issued by testing laboratories must include the following information about each animal that has been tested, in a single report:
  • the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) identification number of the animal(s) where individual identification is required by state or territory legislation;
  • the Property Identification Code (PIC) where the animal(s) was located when sampled; and
  • the corresponding visual tag number of the animal(s) (if applied).
• This policy outlines how testing laboratories, exporters, accredited veterinarians (AAVs) and registered veterinarians must identify individual livestock in export laboratory test reports.
• The department has delayed commencement of updated laboratory test report requirements under ASEL 3.3. The updated standards will come into force on 3 April 2024. See EAN 2023-17 for further information.
• All consignments exported on or after 3 April 2024 must comply with this new requirement.
• Exporters are encouraged to upgrade and test their systems ahead of 3 April 2024 to ensure they are prepared for the change.
  • Exporters may contact the department if they have any questions regarding upgrading their systems to meet the new requirement.

Background

1. On 30 November 2023 the department published ASEL 3.3.