Property Identification Code (PIC)
What is a Property Identification Code (PIC)?
A Property Identification Code (PIC) is an eight-character code allocated by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or an equivalent authority in each state or territory to identify a livestock-producing property. Producers must have a PIC to move livestock on and off a property – it forms the basis of Australia’s food safety and traceability programs.
There are differences between states and territories in how PICs are managed. In some states, amalgamation of separate PICs owned by the same entity, into a single PIC, is allowed. In other states, one property can be issued multiple PICs if there are livestock owned by multiple entities on the property. It is important to understand the requirements for your state or territory.
How are PICs used in the red meat integrity system?
PIC numbers, rather than properties are the basis for all Integrity System programs:
- On-farm assurance, delivered by the LPA program, is PIC based. This means every PIC that is part of the LPA program must be accredited.
- The NLIS program also relies on PICs to ensure traceability of animals through the supply chain. NLIS tags/devices are issued to specific PICs and are applied to any livestock born there (Breeder Tags) or livestock that have been moved there and require a replacement tag (Post Breeder tags).
- All livestock movements must be recorded on the NLIS database, identifying the ‘from’ and ‘to’ PICs for the movement, as well as the individual animals via their NLIS tags (or mobs of animals for mob-based transfers).
- Statuses can be assigned to PICs that indicate particular circumstances such as PICs that have accessed cotton trash. For more information on PIC statuses please refer to Tech Tip - PIC and device status codes).
- Accredited LPA PICs are required to use LPA NVDs for every livestock movement between different PICs and record this information on their NVD, making PICs central to LPA NVD recording.
How to obtain a PIC?
PICs are issued by state and territory departments to identify parcels of land used for agricultural purposes. To obtain a PIC, contact the relevant authority in your state or territory.
Is your PIC LPA accredited?
Producers can check if their PIC is accredited using the accreditation search tool.