Livestock brands and earmarks consultation

The Brands Act 1915 is more than 100 years old and has not been amended in decades. The act does not reflect current trends and brands are no longer used for most biosecurity purposes.

The information system used to support brands and earmarks is in urgent need for replacement. By consulting now, DAF will be able to implement a new system by 2024.

There are two proposed options for brands:

1. Retaining the current legislative requirements for branding (the status quo) with the addition of a renewal fee, or
2. Providing choice about branding under a streamlined system with a renewal fee under two sub-options:

• 2A – Giving owners the option of an exemption from mandatory branding of cattle or pigs (choice to opt-out)
• 2B – Giving owners the option of voluntary branding of cattle or pigs (choice to opt-in).

DAF is also providing a choice about earmarking. There are three proposed options:

• Earmark Option 1 - (the status quo) earmarks would continue to be registered within earmark districts
• Earmark Option 2 - earmarks would continue to be registered but for use anywhere in the state
• Earmark Option 3 - further de-regulation of earmarks

Livestock owners can continue to brand and earmark their animals regardless of the outcome of the consultation.

Full details of the consultation are contained in the Livestock Brands and Earmarks in Queensland: Regulatory Impact Statement and Supplement.

The livestock brands and earmarks consultation closed on 15 January 2023. The Queensland Government will consider feedback and develop detail of the option it chooses.