NSW Sheep and Goat eID Equipment Rebate Program
The NSW Government has announced a new rebate program to help sheep and goat producers, as well as livestock agents, buy electronic identification (eID) equipment.
Eligible producers and agents can get 50% of the cost back, up to $1,500, when they buy a handheld eID reader.
The program is now open.
The government has invested $2 million into this program to make eID equipment more affordable for people across the state.
How to apply
Applications opened 2 March 2026 and close 31 August 2026, or earlier if the program’s funding is fully allocated.
For full program details, eligibility requirements, and to begin your application, visit the NSW Sheep and Goat eID Equipment Rebate Program for Producers and Livestock Agents on the NSW Government grants website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
What is the NSW Sheep and Goat eID Equipment Rebate Program?
This program helps sheep and goat producers, and livestock agents in NSW, move to mandatory electronic identification (eID). It provides rebates for buying eligible handheld eID readers.
Who is eligible for the Producer equipment rebate?
You may be eligible if you:
- have a NSW Property Identification Code (PIC)
- hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN)
- run a sheep or goat enterprise based in NSW
- operate as a sole trader, partnership, trust or company
- have not received funding under a previous NSW Sheep and Goat eID Infrastructure Rebate Scheme
You must also show that you are actively involved in the sheep and goat sector. This can be done with tax returns, financial statements or an Annual Stock and Land Return (2024 or later).
When can I apply and how are applications assessed?
Applications open 2 March 2026 and close 31 August 2026, or earlier if funding is exhausted.
This is a non-competitive, demand-driven rebate program. Applications are not compared against each other. Each application is assessed to confirm eligibility and that assessment criteria are met.
Applications are assessed in the order they are received and approved on a first-in, first-served basis until the program closes or available funding is fully allocated.
How much can I claim and is GST included in rebate payment?
The rebate covers 50% of the GST exclusive cost of an eligible handheld eID reader, up to a maximum of $1,500 (GST exclusive).
Rebate payments will be GST exclusive. However, the payment may still be considered income.
Recipients should seek independent professional advice about taxation obligations or seek assistance from the Australian Taxation Office. The NSW Government does not provide advice on individual taxation circumstances.
Can I apply if I received funding under a previous NSW eID infrastructure rebate?
No. Applicants who have already received funding under a previous NSW Sheep and Goat eID Infrastructure Rebate Scheme are not eligible.
I am a hobby farmer with an ABN. Am I eligible?
Yes. Hobby farmers may apply if they:
- hold an active ABN
- have a NSW Property Identification Code (PIC)
- can demonstrate active involvement in the sheep or goat sector with tax returns, financial statements or an Annual Stock and Land Return (2024 or later).
Who is eligible for the Livestock Agent equipment rebate?
You must:
- hold a valid and current NSW Stock and Station Agents Licence
- operate as a sole trader, partnership, trust or company
- have not received funding under a previous NSW Sheep and Goat eID Infrastructure Rebate Scheme
A Licenced Stock and Station Agency who has previously purchased eligible items on behalf of employees under a single company ABN may be eligible to apply on behalf of employees of the business who hold their own separate Stock and Station Agent Licence, up to the maximum amount available, for each eligible employee.
I am a livestock agent but do not have an ABN. Can I apply?
Yes. Livestock agents who do not hold an ABN may still apply, provided they supply their current Stock and Station Agent licence details and tax invoices showing proof of payment for eligible eID readers in their own name.
What items are eligible for the rebate?
The rebate supports the purchase of handheld electronic identification (eID) readers only (i.e stick or wand readers).
The following items are not eligible:
- eID tags
- panel readers (including antennas and reader boxes)
- indicators
- software or tablets
- second-hand equipment
- wand reader extensions.
Do I need to purchase equipment before applying?
Yes. This is a rebate program. Eligible equipment must be purchased before you apply, and proof of purchase must be provided with your application.
Will funds be reserved if I apply before purchasing a reader?
No. Funds are not reserved under this program. You must provide a tax invoice and proof of purchase as part of your application.
Are proforma invoices accepted?
No. Proforma invoices are estimates and are not accepted. You must provide a valid tax invoice.
What does my tax invoice need to include?
Tax invoices must:
- be itemised and clearly describe the items purchased
- be issued to the applying entity
- include the seller’s business name, address and ABN (where applicable)
- include the invoice date
- show GST (if applicable).
Do I need to pay the invoice in full before applying?
Yes. The invoice must be paid in full before any rebate application can be assessed. Proof of payment must be included with your application.
I purchased an eligible reader after 3 October 2023. Can I apply?
Yes. Eligible purchases made on or after 3 October 2023 can be claimed, provided a valid tax invoice and proof of payment are supplied.
Upcoming events
To find out where our team will be delivering information about sheep and goat eID, visit the LLS Upcoming Events page or sign up for our newsletter.
Contact us
If you have any questions you can contact us at sheepgoateid@dpird.nsw.gov.au