More than 26,900 land managers across the south east region who pay Local Land Services rates or have a Property Identification Code will shortly receive their returns.

These are among 150,000 annual returns across NSW that are due to be lodged by August 31.

The process is essential for ensuring the continuation of vital market access for NSW producers.

The returns are essentially a census for livestock on June 30 each year and include all stock six months of age or older, regardless of whether it belongs to the landholder, is agisted or on the property for any other reason. Pigs of any age should be counted, as well as flocks of 100 or more poultry.

Local Land Services general manager Derek Larsen said it was important to complete an Annual Land and Stock Return even if land managers had no stock. 

“If the Annual Land and Stock Return isn’t lodged by August 31, an animal health rate and meat industry levy will automatically be applied to next year’s rates notice,” Mr Larsen said.

Along with the stock identification and traceability systems Local Land Services manages, the information is invaluable in the event of an emergency disease outbreak.

Effective animal biosecurity and welfare is insurance to maintain market access for livestock producers, now and in the future.

“NSW produce is free of many of the pests and diseases found in other parts of the world,” Mr Larsen said.

“That is why Local Land Services works with land managers to monitor herds and flocks and share up-to-date advice and information to increase productivity.

“In the south east region, the range of stock includes, but is not limited to beef and dairy cattle, sheep, horses, goats and alpacas.

“This information helps us go directly to the people whose land or stock may be affected in an emergency in our region.”

For more information, land managers should contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299 or go to lls.nsw.gov.au.

Land managers can also lodge their returns online at lls.nsw.gov.au.