Gaining Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) accreditation
Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) is Australia’s national assurance program for red meat producers. Undertaking LPA accreditation will help you meet your legal obligations, assures your customers that your animals are raised to Australia’s world class industry standards, and will open doors to more markets.
How can LPA help you?
1. Access to National Vendor Declarations (NVDs)
With LPA accreditation, you get access to LPA NVDs. These are official documents required to move and sell livestock. LPA NVDs are recognised by livestock transporters, saleyards, processors, police and regulators throughout Australia.
2. By providing better access to markets
Most saleyards and processors require livestock to travel with a valid LPA NVD. Completing LPA voluntary modules can help you qualify for other market access opportunities that require additional assurance standards.
3. By providing up-to-date industry information
LPA is developed in collaboration with farmers, consumers, processors, and state and territory governments. By registering for the LPA, you will receive the latest guidance, news and information to help you meet industry standards.
What you’ll need before applying
LPA accreditation is recommended for all beef, lamb, mutton and goat producers in Australia. Before registering for LPA, you must have:
ü A current Property Identification Code (PIC) issued by your state or territory government
ü Correct property owner and address details
ü A myMLA account
ü Business/ABN details (if applicable)
At the end of this process, you must pay the $99.00 fee to receive accreditation. Follow our step-by-step guide to complete your LPA registration.
Learn while you register: LPA Self-Assessment
LPA registration includes a Self-Assessment designed to teach producers about LPA requirements and standards. The Self-Assessment will give you confidence that you are meeting LPA standards from day one.
During Self-Assessment, you will:
- Be asked tailored questions about your on-farm practices
- Receive a personalised recommendations report showing what you can do on the farm to meet these standards and requirements.
Keeping your accreditation up to date
To stay accredited with LPA you must:
- Keep up-to-date records of on-farm practices.
- Renew your accreditation by completing the Self-Assessment and paying the $99 fee every two years.
- Be prepared for occasional audits. These help maintain trust in the system and if selected, you must complete the audit to maintain your accreditation.
Check out the LPA Handbook for more information about LPA.
Tools & Resources
FAQs
Not every farm is audited annually. Properties may be chosen for audits at random or as part of a targeted selection. If selected, you will need to complete the audit to retain your accreditation. If your property is selected for an audit, you will receive notice in advance and advice on what you need to do.
How do I find the correct property owner for a PIC?
- You can contact your state or territory agricultural department (privacy rules may apply).
- Search the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) database for property owner details.