For some time it has been a requirement in NSW for owners of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs to have a Property Identification Code (PIC) when trading or moving these livestock.
From 1 September 2012, anyone who keeps livestock in NSW will be required to obtain a PIC for the land on which the livestock are kept.
Clause 37 of the Stock Diseases Regulation 2009 requires all livestock owners/managers, and occupiers of land which carries cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, bison, buffalo, deer, camelids, equines (i.e. horses and donkeys) or poultry to have a Property Identification Code regardless of whether the livestock are moved or not.
About PICs
A PIC is a unique eight character identifier assigned by Livestock Health and Pest Authorities to properties that carry livestock. The PIC system allows for the tracing of livestock for disease and chemical residue purposes.
A PIC is derived as follows:
- The first character is the letter ‘N’, for New South Wales;
- The second character is a check digit that allows computers to automatically confirm that the PIC is valid and has been correctly entered;
- The next two numeric characters identify the Livestock Health and Pest district;
- The final four numeric characters are your individual property number.
This code also enables the property occupiers to purchase identification devices, identify the property for movement recording and enrol in industry quality assurance programs.
Obtaining a PIC
For more information, or to obtain a PIC, visit the LHPA website.