Queensland producers must start cattle tick eradication by 1 October or face prolonged movement limits

# Deadline for cattle tick eradication

Queensland producers with known cattle tick infestations in the cattle tick free zone must begin eradication programs by 1 October or face continued movement restrictions that could last until at least mid-2028. Owners of properties designated as Restricted Places under the Biosecurity Act 2014 are legally required to eradicate cattle ticks.

# What eradication programs must include

Chemical eradication programs need to run for a minimum of 26 weeks and are expected to finish by 31 March. The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) requires owners or those in charge of the program to keep records as evidence. Minimum records include:

• Receipts for chemicals purchased and used.
• Treatment logs listing chemical name, concentration, application method, date of treatment and which animals were treated.

The department says planning should already be well advanced. Landholders who have not yet started must begin by 1 October to meet the requirement.

# Financial help and approved products

DPI has temporarily increased the acaricide subsidy for owners of Restricted Places in the free zone to 25 percent. The subsidy applies to all chemical types that carry a registered label claim for full control of cattle tick. Eligible forms include plunge-dip formulations, pour-on products and injectables.

# Non-chemical options

Owners may also choose to eradicate by destocking their property for at least nine months. A combined approach of destocking and chemical treatment is an accepted alternative. Regardless of method, program success depends on reducing chances of reinfestation.

# Measures to prevent reinfestation

For eradication to work, every animal must be treated during each round where chemicals are used. Landholders must also maintain stockproof boundary fencing to limit contact with neighbouring tick-infested animals. Properties adjacent to Restricted Places in the free zone should take precautions, such as checking and securing boundary fences, complying with livestock movement requirements for strays and considering targeted treatments in high-risk paddocks.

# Reporting and assistance

If cattle ticks are suspected or identified anywhere in the Queensland Cattle Tick Free Zone, the Biosecurity Act 2014 requires notification to Biosecurity Queensland. Landholders should contact their local biosecurity officer or call 132 523. Owners of Restricted Places should contact their case manager or local biosecurity officer for advice on planning and executing eradication plans. The department also provides assistance via 132 523 where a biosecurity officer will be available.

# Practical next steps for landholders

• Confirm whether your property is a Restricted Place and identify your case manager or local biosecurity officer.
• If using chemicals, schedule the first treatment so the 26-week program is underway by 1 October and set up a treatment log and receipt filing process.
• If destocking, plan for a minimum nine-month period and arrange animal movements in compliance with movement rules.
• Inspect and repair boundary fences and set procedures for handling stray animals to reduce reinfestation risk.
• Contact DPI on 132 523 for clarification on eligible chemicals, subsidy details and recordkeeping requirements.

Taking these steps now will determine whether a property can move out of restricted status on schedule or remain subject to movement controls until mid-2028 or beyond.