El Niño: Plan for earlier stock movements
Plan ahead so you’re ready to move livestock when needed
El Niño conditions may mean some farmers need to move stock earlier than planned to secure grazing, sell animals, or manage feed availability. If you're planning to move cattle or deer this season, now is the time to check your TB requirements and make a plan.
Thinking you may need to move stock this season?
- Check whether your property is in a TB Movement Control Area (MCA)
- Farms in MCAs must arrange a TB test at least 14 days before movement
- Remember a clear pre-movement TB test is valid for 60 days
If you're in a Movement Control Area
Movement Control Areas (MCAs) are areas where there is a higher risk of TB infection from wildlife.
If your property is in an MCA, cattle or deer over three months of age must have a clear TB test within 60 days before they're moved off the property, whether they're being sold or moved for grazing.
Stock moving directly to slaughter do not need a pre-movement TB test.
Request your TB test early
Dry conditions often increase demand for livestock movements and TB testing. To avoid delays, allow at least 14 days' notice when booking a pre-movement TB test.
October to December is a busy time for our team, and the potential impacts of El Niño may mean increased demand continues over the summer months.
Once your animals have completed a clear TB test, you have 60 days to move them. A pre-movement test does not commit you to moving the animals if your plans change.
Need help?
If you're unsure whether testing requirements apply to your stock movement, contact our Support Centre team on 0800 482 463