Cross branding in the Northern Territory

Region: Greater Darwin, Katherine Region, Barkly Region, Central Australia | Topic: Livestock, Biosecurity
Feb 2021

Branding Irons

Under the Livestock Act 2008 (the Act), all cattle, except buffalo and horses, over eight months of age are to be branded prior to movement in the Northern Territory (NT).

The NT uses a three letter brand system where one letter must be a ‘T’. Once the three letter brand is registered, the owner can register an ear mark with a distinctive “symbol” brand.

Brands are a permanent identifier, registered to a person or company for use on a specific NT property, as described on the brand certificate. A brand cannot be used on another property without approval from the Registrar. The presence of a registered NT brand on livestock is the only true proof of ownership. Although not a legislated requirement under the Act, cross branding is encouraged to ensure proof of ownership, particularly in instances where cattle are purchased from neighbouring properties.

Please contact your Regional Livestock Biosecurity Officer if you have any queries in relation to cross branding in the NT.

More information

Livestock biosecurity contacts

Back to NT Rural Review - February 2021